I can't say I've successfully changed but I do know a technique. You change your thoughts. Pick a mantra word like 'beware' or 'dominant' or 'strength' and when you see people no matter what the discussion is this word is floating around in the back of your mind. It changes your body language and your responses to people on a subconscious level. For emotional abusers I use 'beware'. For a boss or authority figure I would use 'strength'. Whatever is the image you want to project of yourself. Make sure you are speaking of yourself and not the person you're with. Sounds nutty but fight fire with fire.
Good luck.
Good post by the way.