Conversational Narcissists: The Art of Turning the Conversation Back onto Themselves.
Have you ever found yourself in a conversation with someone who seems to always steer the topic back to themselves? No matter what you’re talking about, they somehow manage to make it about their own experiences, achievements, or opinions. This behaviour is a hallmark of conversational narcissists, individuals who are so focused on themselves that they can’t help but make every conversation about them. In this article, we will explore the traits and tactics of conversational narcissists and provide examples of how they turn the conversation back onto themselves.
Behind The Mask: The Rise Of A Narcissist
- The One-Upper:
One of the most common tactics of conversational narcissists is the one-upper. These individuals always have to have the last word and make sure they have a bigger, better, or more impressive story to share. For example, if you mention that you recently climbed a mountain, a one-upper might respond with, “Oh, that’s great! I climbed the highest peak in the world last year.” They are constantly trying to outdo others and make themselves the centre of attention.
- The Victim:
Conversational narcissists often have a tendency to turn the conversation into a pity party for themselves. No matter what topic is being discussed, they somehow manage to bring the focus back to their own problems, grievances, and hardships. For instance, if you’re talking about a recent promotion at work, a conversational narcissist might interject with, “I’m struggling so much at my job, I can’t seem to catch a break,” effectively redirecting the attention back to themselves.
- The Expert:
Another tactic of conversational narcissists is to position themselves as the ultimate authority on every topic. They constantly interject with their own opinions, advice, and insights, regardless of whether they are relevant or solicited. For example, if you’re discussing a recent news event, a conversational narcissist might chime in with, “Actually, I wrote my thesis on that topic, and I think you’re missing the point entirely.” They make every effort to assert their expertise and knowledge to gain attention and validation.
- The Name-Dropper:
Conversational narcissists often use the tactic of name-dropping to draw attention to themselves. They constantly bring up famous or influential people they know or have interacted with, in an attempt to elevate their own status. For example, if you mention a recent concert you attended, a conversational narcissist might respond with, “Oh, that’s nothing. I had dinner with the lead singer last week and got a personal tour of their tour bus.” By inserting themselves into the conversation in this way, they seek to emphasise their own importance and connections.
- The Braggart:
One of the most overt ways conversational narcissists turn the conversation back to themselves is through bragging. They constantly boast about their accomplishments, possessions, and achievements, often to the point of exaggeration. For example, if you share that you recently bought a new car, a conversational narcissist might reply with, “I just purchased a sports car that cost more than most people’s annual salary. I like my toys top of the line.” They seek to make themselves appear superior and garner admiration from others.
- The Interrupter:
Conversational narcissists have a habit of constantly interrupting others in order to steer the conversation back to themselves. They show little regard for what anyone else has to say and are quick to interject with their own thoughts and experiences. For example, if you’re recounting a funny story from a recent vacation, a conversational narcissist might cut in with, “That reminds me of the time I had the best vacation of my life. Let me tell you all about it.” They prioritise their own voice and opinions, often at the expense of others.
In conclusion, conversational narcissists are individuals who are so focused on themselves that they can’t help but make every conversation about them. They employ a variety of tactics to turn the focus back to themselves, such as one-upping, playing the victim, positioning themselves as an expert, name-dropping, bragging, and interrupting. By being aware of these behaviours, we can learn to recognise and navigate conversations with conversational narcissists and assert ourselves in a way that promotes balanced and respectful dialogue.
Click on the links below to join Elizabeth Shaw – Life Coach, on social media for more information on Overcoming Narcissistic Abuse.
The online courses are available by Elizabeth Shaw.
For the full course.
For the free course.
Click here to sign up for the free online starter course.
To help with overcoming the trauma bond and anxiety course.
Click here for the online course to help you break the trauma bond, and those anxiety triggers.
All about the narcissist Online course.
Click here to learn more about the narcissist personality disorder.
The narcissists counter-parenting.
Elizabeth Shaw is not a Doctor or a therapist. She is a mother of five, a blogger, a survivor of narcissistic abuse, and a life coach, She always recommends you get the support you feel comfortable and happy with. Finding the right support for you. Elizabeth has partnered with BetterHelp (Sponsored.) where you will be matched with a licensed councillor, who specialises in recovery from this kind of abuse.
Rules To Deal With Narcissistic People. (Understanding Narcissism.)
15 Rules To Deal With Narcissistic People.: How To Stay Sane And Break The Chain.
Narcissists Handbook: The ultimate guide to understanding and overcoming narcissistic and emotional abuse.-1
Boundaries with Narcissists: Safeguarding Emotional, Psychological, and Physical Independence.
Behind The Mask: The Rise Of A Narcissist
Healing from Narcissistic Abuse: A Guided Journal for Recovery and Empowerment: Reclaim Your Identity, Build Self-Esteem, and Embrace a Brighter Future
(Sponsored.). https://betterhelp.com/elizabethshaw
Advertisements
