What is a covert narcissist?Things Covert Narcissist SayHow To Identify A Covert NarcissistThings Covert Narcissist Do

What is a covert narcissist?

Things Covert Narcissist Say

How To Identify A Covert Narcissist

Things Covert Narcissist Do

Covert narcissists are experts at concealing their true nature, making them particularly challenging to recognize and understand. Their tactics often involve passive-aggressiveness, guilt-tripping, and playing the victim to achieve their objectives.

By subtly manipulating others and maintaining an air of innocence, they protect their fragile ego while maintaining control over their environment and relationships.

1) Passive-aggressive behavior

Covert narcissists often exhibit passive-aggressive behavior as a way to express their feelings of anger or resentment without direct confrontation. This can manifest as subtle digs, backhanded compliments, or deliberate procrastination. For example, a covert narcissist might say something like, “It’s great that you’re finally taking your career seriously,” which can be interpreted as both a compliment and an insult, leaving the recipient feeling confused and hurt.

2) Victim mentality

Covert narcissists tend to adopt a victim mentality, portraying themselves as innocent and misunderstood, even when they are the ones causing harm. They use this tactic to garner sympathy and attention from others while avoiding responsibility for their actions. For instance, a covert narcissist might share a story of how they were unfairly treated at work, conveniently leaving out the part where they provoked the situation or engaged in unprofessional behavior.

3) Guilt-tripping

4) Backhanded compliments

A covert narcissist will often give backhanded compliments, which are seemingly positive statements that actually contain a subtle insult or criticism. This allows them to put others down while maintaining an appearance of kindness and sincerity. An example of a backhanded compliment might be, “You look so much better with makeup on,” implying that the person is unattractive without it.

5) Emotional withdrawal and the silent treatment

Covert narcissists, with their subtle and insidious tactics, can be highly skilled at manipulating and controlling those around them. One common behavior they exhibit is gaslighting, a psychological manipulation technique designed to make the target question their own perceptions and memory.

By sowing seeds of doubt and confusion, covert narcissists can gain power and control over their targets, leaving them feeling helpless and reliant on the narcissist for validation.

Covert narcissists may also use triangulation, a manipulation technique that involves pitting two people against each other to create conflict and divert attention from their own misbehavior. By doing so, they not only maintain control over the situation but also derive satisfaction from the chaos and conflict they create. This tactic can be particularly damaging to relationships, as it fosters distrust, animosity, and division among those involved.

They’re also notorious for engaging in emotional blackmail. They use guilt, fear, and obligation to manipulate and control others, often exploiting their target’s vulnerabilities and insecurities. This behavior can leave their targets feeling emotionally drained and trapped, fearing the consequences of not complying with the narcissist’s demands. Emotional blackmail can be especially damaging to one’s mental health and overall well-being, as it creates an unhealthy power imbalance in the relationship.

Due to the numerous manipulative and controlling behaviors covert narcissists engage in, it is crucial to be wary of their presence and influence in your life. Their tactics can cause significant emotional and psychological harm, leading to feelings of confusion, insecurity, and self-doubt.

By recognizing the signs of covert narcissism and understanding their manipulative tactics, you can protect yourself from their toxic influence and create healthier boundaries in your relationships.

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Reference this article:Practical Psychology. (2023, March).50+ Things Covert Narcissist Say (Examples + Reasons).Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/things-covert-narcissist-say/.Practical Psychology. (2023, March). 50+ Things Covert Narcissist Say (Examples + Reasons). Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/things-covert-narcissist-say/.Copy

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Practical Psychology. (2023, March).50+ Things Covert Narcissist Say (Examples + Reasons).Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/things-covert-narcissist-say/.Practical Psychology. (2023, March). 50+ Things Covert Narcissist Say (Examples + Reasons). Retrieved from https://practicalpie.com/things-covert-narcissist-say/.Copy

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