How do I know if I'm in a relationship with a narcissist?

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Identifying whether you're in a relationship with a narcissist can be challenging, as narcissistic behaviour can manifest in various ways and may not always be immediately apparent. However, below are some common Narcissist Traits that you may be dealing with a narcissist.

Identifying Narcissistic Traits in Your Relationship

If you notice a pattern in any of the nariccist traits and behaviours highlighted below in a person over time and feel consistently manipulated, invalidated, or diminished in the relationship, support is available to you.

Being in a narcissistic or toxic relationship can also have a huge impact on your workplace and there is support for businesses and employees here.

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Common Narcissist Traits

  • Self-Importance: Narcissists often have an inflated sense of self-importance. They may exaggerate their achievements, talents, or abilities and expect constant admiration and praise from others.
  • Lack of Empathy: Narcissists tend to have difficulty empathising with others and understanding their feelings. They may disregard or minimise the emotions and needs of others, focusing primarily on their own desires and concerns.
  • Difficulty Maintaining Relationships: Narcissists may struggle to maintain healthy relationships due to their self-centeredness, lack of empathy, and manipulative behaviour. They may have a pattern of idealizing and devaluing others, leading to frequent conflicts and instability in relationships.
  • Sense of Superiority: Narcissists often view themselves as superior to others and may look down on those they perceive as inferior. They may belittle or demean others to boost their own ego and assert dominance.
  • Manipulative: Narcissists may use manipulation tactics, such as gaslighting, guilt-tripping, or love bombing, to control and manipulate others to get what they want.

Other common signs of Narcissist Behaviour to look out for

  • Sense of Entitlement: Narcissists often believe they are entitled to special treatment or privileges without regard for the feelings or rights of others. They may expect others to cater to their needs and become angry or resentful when their expectations are not met.
  • Lack of Accountability: Narcissists rarely take responsibility for their actions or mistakes. Instead, they may blame others for their problems or failures, make excuses, or deny any wrongdoing.
  • Attention Seeking: Narcissists crave attention and validation from others and may go to great lengths to seek admiration and approval. They may become easily offended or feel threatened when they are not the centre of attention
  • Exploitation: Narcissists may exploit others for personal gain, whether it be financial, emotional, or social. They may use others to meet their needs without considering the well-being of those around them.
  • Difficult Handling Criticism: Narcissists have fragile egos and maybe aggressive or defensive towards criticism. They may become angry, hostile, or dismissive when confronted with feedback that challenges their self-image.
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