Narcissists use manipulation to control situations, boost their image, and keep others dependent or confused. These behaviors damage relationships, erode self-esteem, and create constant doubt. Here are some common tactics and how to spot them:
Gaslighting
What it is: Denying your reality to make you question your perception or memory.
How it works: They might say, “That never happened,” even with evidence to the contrary, causing you to doubt yourself.
Love Bombing and Devaluation
What it is: Initial flattery followed by sudden criticism or indifference.
How it works: Narcissists shower you with affection at first, then pull back and criticize when they feel secure in the relationship, keeping you chasing their approval.
Playing the Victim
What it is: Gaining sympathy to deflect blame or control others.
How it works: They exaggerate past hurts or shift focus to their struggles, making you feel guilty for questioning them.
Triangulation
What it is: Involving a third party to pit people against each other.
How it works: They may praise someone else in front of you to make you feel bad.
Silence
What it is: Withholding communication to punish or control.
How it works: They ignore you or walk away without explanation, causing confusion and making you seek their approval.
Projection
What it is: Accusing you of behaviors they are guilty of.
How it works: If they lie, they may accuse you of lying, shifting blame onto you and putting you on the defensive.
Blame Shifting and Minimizing
What it is: Deflecting responsibility and downplaying your concerns.
How it works: They may blame you for their actions or dismiss your feelings as “overreacting,” keeping them unaccountable.
Future Faking
What it is: Making false promises about the future to keep you hooked.
How it works: They promise a bright future or special plans, only to ignore them later, leaving you confused and waiting.
Protect Yourself from Manipulation
Recognizing these tactics is crucial.
