
Allow the person to think they're asserting their autonomy in the situation. With an adult, try to use reverse psychology in the same way.You may come in the room to find he's already started the process on his own, as he wants to prove his autonomy. You could ask him to wait to make his bed until you finish brushing your teeth, explaining to him he's young and really needs a lot of help. For example, say you're trying to get your son to make his bed in a timely fashion.Try to use it as a means to make someone think they're outsmarting you. This is especially true when using the technique on very young children. Reverse psychology should be lighthearted, and humorous even. This article has been viewed 1,052,163 times.Īim for lighthearted uses of reverse psychology, especially with children. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. WikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Brown is a Fellow of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and a Diplomate for the National Center for Crisis Management and continues to serve a number of psychological and scientific boards. He is also a candidate for a Masters of Liberal Arts through Harvard University. Furthermore, he received a PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Psychology from Capella University. Brown earned a BS in Theology and Religion with a minor in Marketing and an MS in Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family from The University of Great Falls. He is also a prolific author having published three books and numerous articles in magazines, journals, and popular publications.


Brown has specialized in negotiation and profiling. He specializes in working with families, children, and couples, treating a variety of psychological disorders, trauma, and abuse.

Asa Don Brown is a Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. This article was co-authored by Asa Don Brown, PhD, DNCCM, FAAETS.
