A self-righteous narcissist is a breed of individual that can be incredibly challenging to deal with. Their behaviour is characterised by a sense of self-importance, a need to constantly be seen as morally superior, and a lack of empathy for others. They are often perceived as arrogant, judgmental, and closed-minded. In this article, we will explore nine common behaviours exhibited by self-righteous narcissists, how they make it difficult for others to interact with them, and why they are so resistant to taking on board the opinions and perspectives of others.
- Constant need to be right
One of the defining traits of a self-righteous narcissist is their incessant need to be right at all costs. They believe that they are always the authority on any given subject and will go to great lengths to prove their superiority. This behaviour can manifest in debates, arguments, or even casual conversations where they will dismiss or belittle any opposing viewpoints. Their need to be right often comes from a deep-seated insecurity about their own intelligence and worth, leading them to overcompensate by asserting their dominance in discussions.
Dealing with someone who always needs to be right can be exhausting, as they are unwilling to entertain alternative perspectives or consider the possibility that they might be wrong. This can lead to frustration and conflict in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist is unwilling to compromise or see things from another person’s point of view.
- Judgmental and critical of others
Self-righteous narcissists have a tendency to be judgmental and critical of others, often using their own moral code as a benchmark for measuring the worth of others. They see themselves as morally superior and will not hesitate to pass judgment on those who do not meet their standards. This judgmental behaviour can manifest in subtle ways, such as snide comments, passive-aggressive remarks, or more overt displays of criticism and condemnation.
Dealing with someone who is constantly judging and criticising others can be emotionally draining, as their negativity and lack of empathy can create a toxic environment. Self-righteous narcissists are quick to find fault in others while ignoring their own shortcomings, making it difficult to have a healthy and constructive relationship with them.
- Lack of empathy and understanding
One of the most challenging aspects of dealing with a self-righteous narcissist is their lack of empathy and understanding towards others. They are often so focused on their own needs and desires that they fail to recognise or consider the feelings and perspectives of those around them. This lack of empathy can make it difficult for them to form meaningful connections with others, as they are unwilling to engage with others on an emotional level.
Self-righteous narcissists are often unable to see beyond their own worldview and fail to acknowledge the experiences and struggles of others. This can result in them being dismissive of others’ feelings and needs, leading to feelings of isolation and alienation in their relationships. Without empathy and understanding, it is challenging to build trust and mutual respect with a self-righteous narcissist, as they are unwilling to consider the impact of their actions on others.
- Playing the victim
Another common behaviour exhibited by self-righteous narcissists is playing the victim in order to manipulate and control others. They will often portray themselves as the victim in any given situation, using their perceived sense of injustice to garner sympathy and support from others. This victim mentality allows them to avoid taking responsibility for their actions and deflect blame onto others, casting themselves as the helpless victim of circumstances beyond their control.
Dealing with someone who plays the victim can be frustrating, as they are unwilling to take ownership of their behaviour and acknowledge the harm they have caused others. This behaviour can be emotionally manipulative and damaging to relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist uses their victim status to avoid accountability and maintain a sense of moral superiority.
- Refusal to accept criticism
Self-righteous narcissists have a deep-seated aversion to criticism and negative feedback, as they perceive any form of criticism as an attack on their character and integrity. They are quick to become defensive when confronted with criticism, often responding with anger, denial, or blame-shifting. This unwillingness to accept criticism can create tension and conflict in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist is unable to engage in constructive conversations about their behaviour.
Dealing with someone who refuses to accept criticism can be challenging, as they are unwilling to acknowledge their faults and work towards self-improvement. Without the ability to accept feedback and take responsibility for their actions, self-righteous narcissists struggle to grow and develop as individuals, often repeating the same destructive patterns of behaviour.
- Unwillingness to compromise
Self-righteous narcissists are notoriously stubborn and resistant to compromise, as they believe that their way is always the right way. They are unwilling to consider alternative viewpoints or entertain different perspectives, instead insisting on their own beliefs and opinions. This rigidity can create tension and conflict in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist is unwilling to negotiate or find common ground with others.
Dealing with someone who is unwilling to compromise can be frustrating, as the self-righteous narcissist is unyielding in their demands and expectations. This can lead to power struggles and disagreements in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist refuses to consider the needs and desires of others. Without the ability to compromise and work collaboratively with others, self-righteous narcissists struggle to foster healthy and harmonious relationships.
- Inability to admit fault
Self-righteous narcissists have a pathological fear of admitting fault or taking responsibility for their actions, as they believe that doing so would undermine their sense of moral superiority. They are quick to deflect blame onto others or make excuses for their behaviour, refusing to acknowledge their mistakes or shortcomings. This inability to admit fault can create resentment and mistrust in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist is seen as dishonest and untrustworthy.
Dealing with someone who is unable to admit fault can be challenging, as the self-righteous narcissist is unwilling to engage in honest and open communication about their behaviour. This can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist’s unwillingness to take responsibility for their actions can result in repeated conflicts and misunderstandings.
- Controlling and manipulative behaviour
Self-righteous narcissists tend to be controlling and manipulative in their relationships, using their perceived moral superiority as a means of exerting power and influence over others. They will often use guilt, shame, or emotional manipulation to get their own way, disregarding the needs and feelings of others in the process. This controlling behaviour can create a toxic dynamic in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist attempts to dominate and control others to maintain their sense of superiority.
Dealing with someone who is controlling and manipulative can be emotionally draining, as the self-righteous narcissist is often unwilling to respect boundaries or consider the autonomy of others. This can lead to feelings of resentment and anger in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist’s need for control can erode trust and mutual respect. Without the ability to communicate openly and honestly, self-righteous narcissists struggle to form healthy and balanced relationships with others.
- Unwillingness to seek help or change
Self-righteous narcissists are often resistant to seeking help or making changes in their behaviour, as they believe that they are already perfect and beyond reproach. They see any form of criticism or feedback as a personal attack on their character, leading them to reject any suggestions for improvement. This resistance to change can create stagnation and dysfunction in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist remains trapped in destructive patterns of behaviour.
Dealing with someone who is unwilling to seek help or change can be frustrating, as the self-righteous narcissist is unable to acknowledge their faults and work towards personal growth. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair in relationships, as the self-righteous narcissist’s refusal to seek help or change can result in repeated conflicts and misunderstandings. Without the willingness to engage in self-reflection and introspection, self-righteous narcissists struggle to break free from their destructive patterns of behaviour and form healthy relationships with others.
Check these out!
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.
(Sponsored.). https://betterhelp.com/elizabethshaw
Advertisements
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.
The Self-Righteous Narcissist. (Understanding Narcissism. #narcissistic

