* I generally write using the pronouns he/him when referring to narcissists, but females are just as likely to be narcissists or exhibit narcissistic traits. So please don't think just because article uses the word him or he that it could not be a woman in that same role.
Narcissists are often described as being self-absorbed, arrogant, and egotistical. They tend to crave attention and admiration from other people.
How Does A Narcissist React When They Can’t Control You? If you’re wondering whether or not they can change, the answer is yes.
What is Narcissistic Abuse & How to spot it
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is characterized by grandiosity, entitlement, lack of empathy, and a sense of superiority.
People who suffer from NPD believe that they deserve special treatment because they are superior to others.
Narcissism is a chronic condition that cannot be cured overnight. The good news is that there are ways to manage narcissistic tendencies. In fact, research shows that therapy can help.
The symptoms of narcissism include:
- An exaggerated sense of one’s own importance
- Insensitivity to the feelings of others
- Self-centeredness
- Lack of empathy for others
These behaviors do not define the character but rather indicate a person with an emotionally unstable personality.
Because the emotional instability is so severe, it affects nearly every area of the individual’s life.
Most people experience some variation of these behaviors at different times. However, if these behaviors become habitual, then this creates a problem. Some examples of the issues caused by maladaptive behavior include:
- Relationship difficulties
- Poor job performance
- Unhealthy relationships
It should also be noted that children of parents with NPD have higher rates of bullying than non-NPD kids. This is thought to be due to more severe parenting styles among those with NPD.
Can Narcissism Be Treated?
Narcissism is very difficult to treat. It is not a matter of learning new skills like most disorders. Instead, it involves working on underlying beliefs, attitudes, and emotions.
One thing that makes it hard to treat narcissism is that the behavior is largely unconscious. Most narcissists don’t realize that they are misbehaving.
Therefore, it is incredibly challenging to change that behavior based solely on awareness.
However, therapists can work with patients to get them to recognize where the boundaries between appropriate and inappropriate behavior lie.
Then, once the patient becomes aware of their actions, the therapist can teach them how to behave better.
In addition to changing unhelpful behaviors, therapists can also help heal the wounds of abuse.
Therapy can help the narcissist learn to accept responsibility for their choices. In addition, the therapist will encourage healthy coping strategies and support recovery.
If your narcissistic parent has left home and moved away, you may still have contact with them. If that is the case, keep in mind that they are likely to continue to act out the same way until they feel safe.
At this point, they will probably begin acting differently toward you. Unfortunately, this could mean that the narcissist will try to sabotage your relationship.
Suppose you find yourself in a situation where you interact with a narcissist. In that case, it is helpful to know what to expect.
Although it can be difficult, you can use this information to decide whether or not to interact with the narcissist and what to say.
It is best to avoid direct confrontation and talk behind the narcissist’s back. Doing so only fuels the fire. Instead, focus on getting through the day without any significant conflicts.
You can also remind yourself to stay calm. There is no reason to yell or raise your voice. The narcissist will not listen to logical arguments.
They will resort to yelling and screaming if they feel threatened.
50+ Crazy Gaslighting Phrases Narcissists Say – Direct from Survivors
How To Leave A Narcissist
There are several options available to leave a narcissist. The first option is to stop talking to the narcissist altogether.
This can be difficult because you want to prove that they are lying and don’t care about you. However, you need to remember that the narcissist isn’t really interested in you.
They are simply seeking validation from you. Because this is the case, you must stop giving.
The second option is to slowly cut off communication. After you have had enough time to cool down, tell your partner that they need to respect your space.
How Does A Narcissist React When They Can’t Control You
As long as the narcissist hurts you, you should consider finding another place to live.
It can be hard to leave a spouse or significant other, but you must realize that the narcissist cannot change. Their selfish personality traits are hardwired into their brain.
Your best bet is to put your mental health ahead of their feelings about you. Then, do whatever it takes to regain your self-esteem and establish healthier relationships.
This will require patience, understanding, and perseverance.
Narcissists Are Deceitful
After leaving a narcissist, it might seem like everything has changed overnight. For example, you might think your partner has become nicer or more caring.
However, nothing has happened. If anything, the narcissist has gotten worse.
They will most likely start using manipulation tactics again. In addition to trying to win you back, they will now spend more time making sure everyone knows just how wonderful they are.
Suppose you have been living with a narcissist for many years. In that case, you might not even recognize them anymore.
However, even if you leave the narcissist, they may appear unexpectedly at your house one night.
Understandably, you might be tempted to go back to the narcissist. However, if you allow yourself to be seduced by this person, you may become just as bad.
It is essential to remain strong and resist the temptation to return to the narcissist. To break free from an abusive relationship, you need to believe in yourself and trust in safe support networks.
Conclusion
To conclude, it is essential to understand why narcissism exists.
By learning what causes someone to develop narcissistic tendencies, you can discover ways to protect yourself from such individuals.
You will avoid being drawn into a destructive relationship by practicing these methods. You will also avoid having your heart broken over and over again