Narcissists are using this trick to fool thousands—Psychologists warn to avoid it now!
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In relationships, we often face challenging personalities, and narcissists are among the most dangerous. They use cunning tactics to manipulate and control, but one method stands out as particularly harmful.
Psychologists are warning thousands, especially seniors, to be on guard against this hidden threat.
Before we delve into the specific tactic, let's take a moment to understand the narcissist.
A narcissist is someone who exhibits an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, coupled with a lack of empathy for others.
These traits can manifest in various degrees, from subtle arrogance to the more severe Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
Psychologists Dr. Kanchi Wijesekera and Dr. Christine DeVore have shared insights into the narcissistic mind.
They explain that narcissists manipulate to maintain control, avoid accountability, and inflate their fragile egos.
Their tactics are often a defense mechanism against deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and fear of abandonment.
This psychological manipulation involves making someone doubt their own memory, perception, or sanity.
It's a favorite among narcissists because it can be incredibly effective and deeply disorienting for the victim.
Imagine questioning your own thoughts and memories, constantly second-guessing yourself because someone has systematically worked to undermine your reality. That's gaslighting.
It's a form of emotional abuse that can lead to a loss of self-confidence, anxiety, and a sense of isolation.
Named after the vacuum cleaner brand, it describes how a narcissist attempts to “suck” a person back into a relationship or situation from which they've distanced themselves.
This often involves sudden displays of affection, apologies, or promises of change—anything to regain control.
Each is designed to manipulate emotions and behaviors to the narcissist's advantage.
1. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don't let a narcissist gaslight you into thinking otherwise.
2. Set Firm Boundaries: Know your limits and communicate them clearly. Stick to your boundaries, even when it's tough.
3. Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a therapist. You're not alone, and external perspectives can help validate your experiences.
4. Consider Your Well-being: If a relationship with a narcissist is causing harm, it may be time to step away for your own safety and mental health.
Remember, setting boundaries is not just about saying “no” to the narcissist; it's about saying “yes” to your own health and happiness.
Write down your boundaries when you're feeling clear-headed, and refer back to them when you're tempted to give in to hoovering or other manipulative behaviors.
By understanding the tactics of narcissists and how to protect ourselves, we can foster healthier relationships and a stronger sense of self.
Have you ever encountered these manipulation tactics? How did you handle the situation? Share your stories and strategies in the comments below.
Psychologists are warning thousands, especially seniors, to be on guard against this hidden threat.
Before we delve into the specific tactic, let's take a moment to understand the narcissist.
A narcissist is someone who exhibits an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, coupled with a lack of empathy for others.
These traits can manifest in various degrees, from subtle arrogance to the more severe Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
Psychologists warn against a common manipulation tactic used by narcissists called gaslighting, where the victim is made to question their reality. Image source: Pexels.
Psychologists Dr. Kanchi Wijesekera and Dr. Christine DeVore have shared insights into the narcissistic mind.
They explain that narcissists manipulate to maintain control, avoid accountability, and inflate their fragile egos.
Their tactics are often a defense mechanism against deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and fear of abandonment.
The Most Dangerous Tactic: Gaslighting
The tactic in question is gaslighting.This psychological manipulation involves making someone doubt their own memory, perception, or sanity.
It's a favorite among narcissists because it can be incredibly effective and deeply disorienting for the victim.
Imagine questioning your own thoughts and memories, constantly second-guessing yourself because someone has systematically worked to undermine your reality. That's gaslighting.
It's a form of emotional abuse that can lead to a loss of self-confidence, anxiety, and a sense of isolation.
The Subtle Art of “Hoovering”
Another tactic to be aware of is “hoovering.”Named after the vacuum cleaner brand, it describes how a narcissist attempts to “suck” a person back into a relationship or situation from which they've distanced themselves.
This often involves sudden displays of affection, apologies, or promises of change—anything to regain control.
Other Tactics to Watch For
Narcissists have a whole arsenal of manipulative strategies. Triangulation, love bombing, stonewalling, and projection are just a few more examples.Each is designed to manipulate emotions and behaviors to the narcissist's advantage.
How to Protect Yourself
So, how do you combat these tactics? Dr. Wijesekera and Dr. DeVore offer some empowering advice:1. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don't let a narcissist gaslight you into thinking otherwise.
2. Set Firm Boundaries: Know your limits and communicate them clearly. Stick to your boundaries, even when it's tough.
3. Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a therapist. You're not alone, and external perspectives can help validate your experiences.
4. Consider Your Well-being: If a relationship with a narcissist is causing harm, it may be time to step away for your own safety and mental health.
Remember, setting boundaries is not just about saying “no” to the narcissist; it's about saying “yes” to your own health and happiness.
Write down your boundaries when you're feeling clear-headed, and refer back to them when you're tempted to give in to hoovering or other manipulative behaviors.
By understanding the tactics of narcissists and how to protect ourselves, we can foster healthier relationships and a stronger sense of self.
