MANIPULATING A PARTNER IN A POLITICAL DIALOGUE

Abstract

Types of manipulation, use of manipulative techniques and methods of protection from this kind of influence are a well-developed subject in modern psychology. In linguistics, however, this field of study deserves special attention as hidden manipulation can be traced practically in any speech act. The article contains practical analysis of speech strategies employed by the participants of a political dialogue. It is posited that turn taking in a dialogue is an epitome of strategical planning rather than a technical structuring mechanism. The convergence or disparity of the strategies used defines the cooperative or conflict nature of the dialogue as well as the successful implementation of the goals set by the speakers. Among the wide range of turn-transitions, interruptions of a partner deserve the closest attention as they demonstrate the speakers’ attempts to grab or hold the communicative initiative. In this case interruptions can be viewed as ways to manipulate both the dialogue partner and in case of TV broadcasts the public opinion. The findings of the research can be found useful by students majoring in journalism as well as by those who study diplomacy and international relations because the ability to recognize the hidden intentions of a communication partner is the best method to protect oneself from being manipulated.