Psychological

Moving the Goalposts

What it is

Continuously changing the criteria for success so that no evidence or achievement is ever sufficient.

How it works

When someone meets the stated requirement, the manipulator changes or adds new requirements, ensuring the target can never actually "win." This maintains power over the target by keeping them in a perpetual state of striving and inadequacy.

Real-world examples

  • •An employee meets all performance targets but the manager adds new criteria to deny a promotion.
  • •A debate opponent demands evidence, then dismisses each piece and asks for something different.
  • •A partner who says "If you just did X, I'd be happy" — but when X is done, it becomes Y.

Ethical guidelines

  • ●Set clear, stable criteria and honor them once met.
  • ●If criteria genuinely need to change, explain why and acknowledge previous achievements.
  • ●Do not use shifting standards to maintain control over others.

How to defend against it

  • ►Get agreements in writing before starting, including specific success criteria.
  • ►Call out the pattern: "The original requirement was X. I met it. Why has it changed?"
  • ►Recognize when no amount of effort will satisfy someone and disengage.

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