Narcissists Dodge Confrontation: The Art of Avoiding Open, Honest Communication.
Narcissism is a personality disorder characterised by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Narcissists often manipulate and exploit others, and they have an intense fear of being exposed for who they truly are. One of the ways they maintain their façade and avoid being confronted about their behaviour is by dodging confrontation.
Why You Can’t Have Open, Honest, Sincere Communication with Closed-Minded, Dishonest, Insincere People?
Narcissists are closed-minded, dishonest, and insincere individuals who are unable to engage in open, honest, and sincere communication. Their inability to take responsibility for their actions and their unwillingness to acknowledge the impact of their behaviour on others makes it virtually impossible to have a meaningful conversation with them. Their manipulation tactics and defensiveness make it extremely challenging to confront them about their behaviour.
What Happens When You Try to Communicate with Them About Their Actions, Choices, Decisions, or Behaviours?
When you attempt to communicate with a narcissist about their actions, choices, decisions, or behaviour, you are likely to encounter a range of manipulative tactics and defensive behaviours. These tactics are intended to prevent them from being held accountable and to shift the focus away from their problematic behaviour. Let’s take a look at some of the common ways narcissists avoid confrontation and manipulate those around them:
Gaslighting: Narcissists often engage in gaslighting, a form of psychological manipulation in which they make you question your perception of reality. They may deny things they’ve said or done, and they may distort the truth in order to make you doubt your own experiences.
Denial: When confronted about their behaviour, narcissists often deny any wrongdoing. They may refuse to acknowledge the impact of their actions on others and may insist that they have done nothing wrong.
Deflection: In an effort to avoid responsibility, narcissists may deflect blame onto others. They may shift the focus of the conversation away from their own behaviour and onto someone else’s perceived faults.
Talking over you: Narcissists are notorious for talking over others and dominating conversations. They may interrupt you, dismiss your concerns, and refuse to let you express yourself.
Feigned ignorance: Another tactic narcissists may use when confronted with their behaviour is feigned ignorance. They may act as if they don’t understand what you’re talking about or claim to have no recollection of the events in question. This can be a way for them to avoid taking responsibility for their actions and to evade accountability. By pretending not to understand or remember, they can create confusion and make it harder for you to hold them accountable for their behaviour.
Devaluation: Narcissists often devalue and demean those who confront them. They may belittle your concerns, dismiss your feelings, and imply that you are overreacting or being irrational.
Blame and shame: Narcissists may resort to blaming and shaming tactics in an attempt to deflect attention away from their behaviour. They may accuse you of being too sensitive or of being the cause of the problem.
Accusations: When confronted, narcissists may turn the tables and accuse you of the very behaviour you are addressing. They may claim that you are the one who is at fault, and they may become defensive and hostile.
Claiming you’re attacking them: Narcissists often perceive any criticism or confrontation as a personal attack. They may become defensive and claim that you are trying to undermine them or hurt them.
Playing the victim: In an effort to avoid accountability, narcissists may play the victim and portray themselves as the ones who are suffering. They may seek sympathy and attention in order to manipulate the situation in their favor.
Throwing temper tantrums: When confronted, narcissists may resort to childish and aggressive behaviour. They may throw temper tantrums, yell, or become physically aggressive in an attempt to shut down the conversation.
Falling silent: In some cases, narcissists may fall silent in an attempt to avoid confrontation. They may refuse to engage in the conversation, give you the silent treatment, or walk away from the situation.
Why They Do This?
Narcissists engage in these manipulative tactics and defensive behaviours to protect their fragile egos and maintain their false sense of superiority. They are unable to tolerate any form of criticism or confrontation, and they will go to great lengths to avoid being held accountable for their behaviour. By using these tactics, they are able to avoid taking responsibility and protect their image as faultless and blameless individuals.
What You Need to Do Instead of Calling Them Out?
Dealing with a narcissist who dodges confrontation can be extremely challenging and emotionally draining. Instead of trying to call them out, it is important to focus on setting boundaries and taking care of yourself. Here are some strategies for dealing with a narcissist who avoids confrontation:
- Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with the narcissist and communicate your expectations for how you will be treated. Make it clear that you will not tolerate their manipulative tactics or abusive behaviour.
- Practice self-care: Take care of yourself and prioritise your own well-being. Spend time with supportive friends and family members, engage in activities that bring you joy, and seek out professional support if needed.
- Seek validation elsewhere: Recognise that you are unlikely to receive validation or empathy from the narcissist. Seek out validation and support from trusted individuals who can provide you with the understanding and compassion you need.
- Consider seeking professional help: If you are struggling to cope with the narcissist’s behaviour, consider seeking the support of a therapist or counsellor who can help you navigate the challenges of dealing with a narcissist. (Sponsored.). https://betterhelp.com/elizabethshaw
- Limit contact: If possible, limit your contact with the narcissist and create distance between yourself and their toxic behaviour. Minimise interactions with them and focus on creating a supportive and nurturing environment for yourself.
In conclusion, narcissists dodge confrontation in order to avoid being held accountable for their behaviour and to protect their fragile ego. Their manipulative tactics and defensive behaviours make it extremely difficult to have open, honest, and sincere communication with them. Rather than trying to call them out, it is important to focus on setting boundaries, seeking validation elsewhere, and prioritising your own well-being. By taking care of yourself and surrounding yourself with supportive individuals, you can navigate the challenges of dealing with a narcissist who avoids confrontation.
How Narcissists Dodge Confrontation To Appear Innocent
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