Reverse psychology can work. In fact, in two studies, researchers concluded that in some cases, reverse psychology can accomplish its goal. In other cases, however, reverse psychology doesn't work. Many factors must come into playfor reverse psychology to work; the target person must believe the ruse.

Is reverse psychology good?

The results revealed that more than two-thirds of the participants reported using reverse psychology and that on average, they used it almost monthly and found it to be highly effective.

Is it wrong to use reverse psychology?

The reverse psychology can backfire, and cause the target to pursue the directly suggested course of action instead of the intended opposite. This can happen, for example, if the target trusts you and chooses to follow what you said, or if they lack confidence and you doubting their abilities causes them to give up.