reverse psychology

noun

1. (in nontechnical use) a method of getting another person to do what one wants by pretending not to want it or to want something else or something more.

Example Sentences

The agents used reverse psychology to help coax as many of the criminals to the event as possible.

From BBC

She told the BBC the scammer used "reverse psychology" on her and said he had been scammed before himself.

From BBC

By using reverse psychology, it had essentially inspired people to make them think plastic-free toys were possible, an expert in corporate sustainability said.

From Los Angeles Times

Play a little reverse psychology on the electorate?

From Slate

This should be evident from reverse psychology “attack ads” Democrats have been running to boost Trumpier candidates in key Republican primaries.

From Washington Post