SEVEN EMOTIONAL ABUSE TACTICS USED BY NARCISSISTS

By: Khalif Barkhadle
Digital Journalist

Published On: 22nd July 2024

I do not understand why this is not mainstream information. The emotional abuse inflicted by narcissists can be a silent yet devastating force, leaving victims grappling with their sense of self-worth and reality. The manipulative tactics employed by narcissists are paramount in breaking free from their toxic grip. Here, we delve into seven specific emotional abuse tactics secretly used by narcissists. Are you ready? Let’s begin.

Tactic number 1: Blaming you for everything.

Have you ever noticed how some people seem to point fingers at others when something goes wrong? Well, those people might be narcissists. They’re masters at dodging blame, always finding a way to make it someone else’s fault. It’s like they have a superpower for shifting responsibility onto others, especially onto their victims. Picture this: No matter what happens, they never own up to their mistakes. Nope, instead, they pin it all on those unfortunate souls around them.
And guess what? This blame game they play can mess with your head. You end up feeling like you’re carrying the world’s weight on your shoulders, even for stuff that’s totally out of your control. Listen closely. It’s enough to make anyone feel small and worthless, but remember, it’s not your fault. You’re not to blame for their mess-ups, no matter how much they try to convince you otherwise. So, if you find yourself caught in this blame whirlwind, remember it’s not about you; it’s about them and their need to avoid taking responsibility. You deserve better than being their scapegoat.

Tactic number 2: Narcissists invalidate your feelings.

Have you ever felt like your feelings don’t matter to someone? Well, that someone might just be a narcissist. These people have a knack for brushing off your emotions like they’re nothing. It’s like they don’t even care how you feel, whether you’re angry, sad, or happy. They find a way to make it seem like your feelings don’t count.

And let me tell you, that can mess with your head. It’s like they’re saying your emotions aren’t important, which can make you feel pretty small and worthless. But here’s the thing: your feelings are valid, no matter what they say. Don’t let their dismissive attitude make you doubt yourself. You deserve to be heard and understood, so don’t let them make you feel otherwise. Hold your head high, and remember that your feelings matter, no matter what anyone else says.

Tactic number 3: Manipulative flattery.

Have you ever met someone who just can’t stop showering you with compliments? Well, watch out, they might be a narcissist. These people love to lay it on thick with the flattery, making you feel like you’re walking on Cloud9. But here’s the catch: it’s all part of their game. They’re not genuine; they’re trying to manipulate you. Yep, that’s right, they use those sweet words to reel you in to make you feel special and important. But don’t be fooled; it’s all a ploy to gain control over you. And guess what? Once they’ve got you hooked, they’ll start pulling the strings.

Suddenly, those compliments turn into criticisms, and you’re left wondering what happened. It’s like a roller coaster ride of emotions, with highs and lows that leave you feeling dizzy and confused. But here’s the thing: you don’t need their validation to feel good about yourself. You’re fantastic just the way you are; no flattery is required. So, if someone’s laying it on thick with compliments, take a step back and ask yourself: Why? Are they genuine, or are they just trying to manipulate you?

Tactic number 4: Isolation.

Have you ever felt like you’re all alone in the world, with no one to turn to? Well, that could be because of a narcissist. These people are masters at cutting people off from their support network, friends, family, you name it. They’ll do whatever it takes to keep you all to themselves. And guess what? It’s not because they love you so much. Nope, it’s all about control. Narcissists want you to depend on them for everything: validation and companionship, you name it.

They’ll chip away at your connections until you feel like you have no one else but them. And that’s precisely what they want. Listen to me closely. The more isolated you are, the easier it is for them to control you. It’s like they’re building a little fortress around you, with them at the centre, calling all the shots. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to play by their rules.

You deserve to have a life outside of their grasp, filled with people who genuinely care about you. So, if you feel like you’re being cut off from the world, take a step back and ask yourself: Why? Are they looking out for you, or are they just trying to control you? Trust your instincts, and don’t let anyone isolate you from the people who truly matter. You’re stronger than you think, and you deserve to be surrounded by love and support.

Tactic number 5: Triangulation.

Have you ever felt like there’s someone else in your relationship, someone you didn’t invite? Well, that could be because of a narcissist. These sneaky people like to bring in a third wheel to mess with your head. It could be an ex, a friend, or even a family member. And guess what? They’re not there to make things better. Nope, they’re there to stir up drama and make you feel insecure. It’s like they’re trying to create a love triangle, with you stuck in the middle.

And let me tell you, it’s not a fun place to be. You end up feeling jealous, insecure, and downright miserable. But here’s the kicker: it’s all part of the narcissist’s plan. They want to keep you off-balance, to make sure you’re always looking over your shoulder. And the more insecure you feel, the more control they have over you. It’s like they’re playing puppet master, pulling the strings, and watching you dance. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to play their game.
You deserve a relationship free from drama and manipulation. So, if you feel like there’s someone else in the picture, take a step back and ask yourself: Why? Are they there for your benefit, or are they just there to mess with your head? Trust your instinct, and don’t let anyone else dictate your relationships. You deserve better than being stuck in a love triangle orchestrated by a narcissist.

Tactic number 6: Intimidation.

Narcissists frequently use intimidation tactics to maintain power and dominance over their victims. This could involve verbal threats, aggressivbehaviourour, or even physical violence. The mere threat of retaliation is often enough to keep victims compliant and submissive, trapped in a cycle of fear and coercion.

Tactic number 7: Threat.

Have you ever had someone try to scare you into doing what they want? That’s a classic move of a narcissist. These people aren’t afraid to pull out all the stops to get their way. They’ll threaten to leave, hurt themselves, or spill your secrets, all to keep you under their thumb. And let me tell you, it’s not a pleasant experience.
Those threats hang over your head like a dark cloud, making you feel scared and unsure of what to do. It’s like they’re holding you hostage, using fear to control you. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to give in to their threats. You have the power to stand up for yourself and say, “Enough is enough.” You deserve to feel safe and secure in your relationships, not constantly afraid of what might happen next.

So, if someone’s using threats to manipulate you, don’t let them get away with it. Stand tall and remember that you deserve respect and kindness, not fear and intimidation. Trust your gut, and don’t let anyone use threats to control you. You’re stronger than you think, and you have the right to live your life without fear.

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