Be cautious of the various types of narcissists you might encounter, and learn how to handle them effectively.
It is likely you’ve encountered a narcissist at some point, given that 10 to 15 percent of the global population exhibits narcissistic tendencies, as noted by psychotherapist Kathleen Saxton.
While some individuals display narcissistic traits, others suffer from Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which is more intense. According to Cleveland Clinic, NPD is a “mental health condition that affects how you view yourself and relate to others.”
They explain, “Having NPD means you have an excessive need to impress others or feel important. That need can be strong enough to drive harmful behaviors, negatively affecting you and those around you.”
Approximately one to two percent of the US population is believed to have NPD, as reported by the American Psychiatric Association.
Given the significant number of people with narcissistic tendencies, experts have identified five types of narcissists you may encounter and strategies to manage them.
Individuals who engage in behaviors such as gaslighting, lying, blaming, exploiting, dominating, and making false promises exhibit narcissistic traits. Those in such relationships may also be at risk of experiencing violence, according to The Telegraph.
If you suspect your partner is displaying these behaviors, Sumeet Grover, a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy-registered psychotherapist, offers some guidance.
“Always know what you are dealing with; it’s easy to be blinkered by love, but a realistic view is empowering,” Grover advises.
“Then you can decide what you are willing to put up with, or if staying in the relationship means you are making huge compromises.
“If a narcissistic partner’s devaluing behaviour escalates, try to find the courage to tell them to stop. Setting this boundary can be an act of self-respect and an important step in protecting your emotional wellbeing.”
Many individuals maintain long-term friendships, even when they are no longer beneficial. If a friend consistently undermines you, makes you feel inferior, or stifles your opinions, they might be a narcissist.
Dee Johnson, a BACP-accredited counsellor, notes that narcissists tend to take more the more you give.
She advises: “They feed off recognition, so try to cut that supply off. But avoid confrontation, as they will only get bigger.
“A good tactic is when they are telling you what to do – which is often as they think they are always right – to acknowledge what they are saying (‘Yes, I hear you’) but don’t agree with it or act on it. It takes away their control over you.”
Johnson explains that people raised by narcissistic parents often have low self-esteem, high anxiety, and a tendency to please others. They may also develop narcissistic traits themselves.
If your relationship with a narcissistic parent is abusive, Johnson suggests distancing yourself from them.
She recommends: “Perhaps limit the time you spend with them and take ownership of how you use that time. Try not to engage in their narrative. If they are making disparaging remarks, talk about something else.
“Narcissists love knowing every detail about you – it gives them vital information to control you – so minimise what you share, and remember, you have the right to privacy.”
Managing sibling relationships can be tricky, sometimes shifting between friendship and rivalry — but the issue might be more than just a lost sweater.
Narcissistic siblings might always shift the blame or use lies to belittle others.
Johnson notes that accepting such a relationship can be challenging.
She states: “A person may look at other close families and realise they won’t experience a similar connection with a narcissistic sibling.
“To move forward, it’s important for them to grieve that loss, and to confront the disappointment that’s attached to this dysfunctional relationship. And to know that it’s also normal to feel angry, lonely and confused.”
Many have experienced dealing with a superior in the workplace who exudes a sense of superiority.
Such individuals can be arrogant, entitled, and egotistical, seeking praise while exploiting others, The Telegraph notes. Yet, they can turn on the charm when seeking something.
Grover comments on those in positions of power, stating that “a narcissistic boss will use it to reinforce their own sense of superiority and control.”
“We all need helpful feedback in our professional lives, and when it isn’t forthcoming, it’s hard to progress,” Grover continues.
“If you are faced with unfair accusations from such a boss, always stick to the facts and calmly keep repeating them back if necessary. If your boss continues to devalue you, remember this behaviour isn’t personal, and when they withhold praise, it usually stems from their envy of your competence rather than a realistic assessment of your performance.”