How Do Narcissists Manipulate?

A narcissist is someone who has an inflated sense of their importance, a deep need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

They may come across as cocky or conceited, boastful or pretentious.

Narcissists are often charming at first- but the charm wears off very quickly.

Narcissists can be difficult to deal with and they often try to manipulate the people around them. 

Emotional Manipulation

One of the ways that narcissists manipulate is by playing on your emotions. 

They may try to make you feel guilty or ashamed, to control you.

Some examples of how this can look are:

• They might say something like, "You're so selfish! How could you do this to me?" to make you feel guilty.
• They might play the victim and say things like, "I can't believe you would do this to me, after everything I've done for you."
• They can try to make you feel sorry for them, by saying things like, "I can't believe how hard I've had it, no one ever understands me."
• They might try and say something designed to make you question your sanity or memory, such as "I never said that," or "You're just imagining things."

These are just a few examples of how a narcissist might try to manipulate you emotionally.

If you're dealing with a narcissist, it's important to be aware of their tactics so you can protect yourself. 

Physical Manipulation

In addition to emotional manipulation, narcissists may also try physical manipulation. 

This can involve using their physical presence to intimidate or control you.

For example, they might stand too close to you, invade your personal space, or even threaten you physically.

They might also try to control your behavior by using physical force or violence.

This is one way how a narcissist manipulates.

Psychological Manipulation

Narcissists may also try to manipulate you psychologically. 

This can involve trying to control how you think or feel about yourself or the situation.

For example, they might try to gaslight you- which means they try to make you question your own reality or memory.

They might say things like, "You're just imagining things," or "I never said that."

They might also try to convince you that you're not good enough, or that you're to blame for whatever problems they're experiencing. 

This is another way how a narcissist manipulates.

What is Gaslighting?

Gaslighting is a type of psychological manipulation that can be very damaging.

It involves making someone question their own reality or memory, to the point where they doubt themselves.

Gaslighting can be extremely harmful and it's important to be aware of it if you're dealing with a narcissist.

The name gaslighting comes from the 1938 play Gas Light, in which a husband tries to make his wife think she's going crazy by dimming the gas lights and then denying that he did it.

Be mindful of those who try to gaslight you- it's a form of control and manipulation that can have a serious impact on your life.

Gaslighting is different than lying in that it's not just about deceiving someone, it's about making them doubt their own reality or memory.

Learn the Warning Signs of a Narcissist

Narcissists can be difficult to deal with and they often try to manipulate the people around them. 

If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, it's important to be aware of their tactics so you can protect yourself.

Some warning signs of narcissism are:

• They have a sense of entitlement and expect special treatment.
• They need constant attention and admiration.
• They are very self-centered and always think they are right.
• They can be manipulative and use tactics like guilt, shame, and gaslighting to control others.
• They can be volatile and have a short temper.
• They may also be physically abusive.

These are a few things to look out for when identifying. 

This is an important part of learning how a narcissist manipulates.

Tips for Dealing With a Narcissist

It can be a challenge to have to share space with a narcissist.

If you have to deal with a narcissist, here are some tips:

• Try to get them to see things from your perspective
• Don't engage in arguments or power struggles. Keep your distance.
• Set boundaries and stick to them
• Make sure you have a support system of friends or family you can rely on
• Document everything and keep records of any abusive behavior

If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, it's important to get out of it if possible. 

If you can't leave, there are still things you can do to protect yourself.

Seek Professional Help If Necessary

If you're struggling to deal with a narcissist, it's important to seek professional help if necessary. 

A therapist can help you understand the situation and give you the tools to deal with it.

FAQs

What is a narcissist?

A narcissist is someone who has an inflated sense of self-importance and a need for attention and admiration. They may be very charming and charismatic, but they also tend to be manipulative and abusive.

How do you deal with a narcissist?

It can be difficult to deal with a narcissist, but it's important to be aware of their tactics so you can protect yourself. Try to get them to see things from your perspective and avoid arguing with them. Set boundaries and stick to them. Make sure you have a support system of friends or family you can rely on.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is for informational purposes only. 

This content should not be considered professional medical advice. 

If you need help please seek medical attention from a licensed medical professional, therapist, counselor, or psychologist. 

They can help you by offering professional advice and giving you the tools you need to navigate challenging mental health situations.

Conclusion

If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, it's important to be aware of their tactics so you can protect yourself.

Try to get them to see things from your perspective and avoid arguing with them. 

Set boundaries and stick to them.

Make sure you have a support system of friends or family you can rely on.

If you're struggling to deal with a narcissist, it's important to seek professional help if necessary. 

A therapist can help you understand the situation and give you the tools to deal with it.