Maintaining a successful relationship can be challenging, and it becomes even more so when you find yourself involved with someone who has textbook narcissistic traits.
Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder often possess an inflated sense of self-importance, which, unsurprisingly, can create tensions in their interactions with others.
Consider it for a moment, and you might recall encountering at least one person who seems to fit this description.
If you haven’t, you’re fortunate, as dealing with such individuals can be quite demanding.
Recently, a new study has provided further insights into the condition, offering valuable information for those who suspect they are in a relationship with a narcissist.
The research revealed that ‘grandiose narcissists’ are more inclined to feel ostracized. Moreover, they tend to be excluded more frequently than individuals with less self-centered personalities.
Published on February 20 in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, the study involved 77,000 participants to understand why narcissists face higher levels of exclusion.
Christiane Büttner, the study’s lead author from the University of Basel, explained the results, stating: “Feeling ostracized is a subjective experience based on the perception of social cues by the individual.
“Some may be intentionally ostracized, while others may merely believe they are being excluded when that’s not the case.
“Our findings suggest that individuals with higher levels of narcissism are more sensitive to exclusion cues, leading them to perceive ostracism more frequently.”
Additionally, narcissists often exhibit behaviors that repel others, such as aggression and arrogance.
Dr. Ramani Durvasula, an LA-based licensed clinical psychologist, frequently treats individuals with narcissistic personality disorder and has identified some of their common characteristics and behaviors.
She noted: “There’s a very thin-skinned quality to narcissistic people, so if they even get a whiff that they are being left out, they’re going to be acutely aware of that.
“It’s picking up a glance or not liking a social media post.”
Durvasula also provided guidance for those in relationships with narcissists.
She recommended employing a strategy of disengagement, where one intentionally withdraws contact or interactions. While narcissists may perceive this as exclusion, it can be essential for maintaining one’s own mental well-being.
However, when interaction is unavoidable, she suggested that being polite without overextending oneself or compromising one’s mental health could be beneficial.
Fortunately, being a narcissist doesn’t spell doom, and if these traits are recognized in young individuals, proactive steps can be taken. For adults, experts suggest that therapy can be effective in addressing the underlying psychological issues contributing to the condition.