By manipulating Sammy, Lengel tries to convince him that he is financially inferior and would benefit from the protection and guidance of someone of higher status (Tyson). For example, Lengel attempts to make Sammy feel guilty for leaving the store. Lengel says, “Sammy, you don't want to do this to your mom and dad” (Updike 457). Since Lengel is said to be friends with Sammy's parents, it is assumed that his parents got him the job at A&P. However, it is also implied that Sammy is middle or lower class and it is evident that Sammy's family needs as many salaries as possible. Therefore, quitting his job at the A&P store would cause a financial burden on Sammy's entire family. Lengel also threatens, “You will feel it for the rest of your life” (Updike 457). Once again, Lengel tries to make Sammy feel guilty by making it seem like leaving the store will affect his future chances of finding a job. By colonizing his consciousness, Lengel attempts to make Sammy feel emotionally and financially dependent on the potential benefits of working at A&P. Updike uses the colonization of consciousness to emphasize Lengel's control and manipulation