Nagging

Techniques > General persuasion > Using repetition > Nagging

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

When you want something and somebody else can give it to you, then just keep on asking them until you get what you want.

Try any approach you like -- but just keep trying. The only time to stop is when you get what you want.

You can plead and whinge at them, taking a child position.

You can also demand things from them, be angry and stamp your feet.

Agree to do anything (in reason!) that they want.

You can nag at one time (such as when you are in a shop and want something bought for you) and you can wear them down over a period of days (or months, if necessary).

Example

Oh go on! Go on -- let me have it, please? Please can I have it? I'll do what you want. Just let me have it.

(over time): We need a new carpet...This carpet is dreadful...I really don't like this carpet...There's a sale on at the carpet warehouse...Jan got a great new carpet last month...

Discussion

Nagging is a very well known method by many children, who know that although they do not have the control of their parents, that persistence will, in the end, pay.

The child's method often gets repeated in domestic partnerships, where, although you might get your way, a habit of using this unsubtle method can lead to the relationship ultimately breaking up.