I dislike that word. I do understand that it means to mould or shape something. Like manipulating clay in pottery.
When T said manipulating the situation to get the best outcome for everyone, I said hey that makes me feel like a bad person. He said ok it is a clinical word that has been given negative connotations. But how about managing the best of people and things to their strengths? He said good managers play the strengths of their staff to get a good team.
So I still struggle with that word. Especially after I read awful letters or emails from my parents.