The Self-righteous Narcissist

The self-righteous narcissist. This particular type of narcissist is characterised by their belief in their own moral superiority and righteousness. They see themselves as above others, as the moral compass of society, and as the ultimate judge of what is right and wrong. This sense of self-righteousness permeates every aspect of their lives, impacting their relationships and interactions with others in profound ways.

What is a Self-righteous Narcissist?

The self-righteous narcissist is the type of narcissist who firmly believes that they are always right and that their way of thinking and behaving is the only correct way. They are convinced of their own moral superiority and have a rigid belief system that they adhere to without question. They see themselves as the ultimate authority on what is right and wrong, and they are quick to judge others who do not align with their beliefs.

Unlike other types of narcissists who may be more focused on their physical appearance or social status, the self-righteous narcissist is primarily concerned with being seen as morally superior. They often present themselves as virtuous, ethical, and principled individuals, and they expect others to recognise and defer to their perceived moral authority.

Behaviours that Identify a Self-righteous Narcissist:

Moral Superiority: The self-righteous narcissist exudes an air of moral superiority, constantly touting their own virtues and righteousness. They believe that they are more ethical, principled, and virtuous than others, and they make sure to let everyone around them know it.
Judgmental Attitude: Self-righteous narcissists are quick to judge others for their perceived moral failings. They have a black-and-white view of the world, categorising people into “good” and “bad” based on their adherence to their moral code. They are highly critical of those who do not meet their standards of morality.
Self-righteous Indignation: When challenged or questioned, the self-righteous narcissist often responds with self-righteous indignation. They become defensive and angry, unable to tolerate any perceived attack on their moral superiority. They may resort to gaslighting or manipulation to prove their point and maintain their image of righteousness.
Hypocrisy: Despite their claims of moral superiority, self-righteous narcissists often exhibit hypocritical behaviour. They may preach about honesty and integrity, for example, while engaging in deceitful or manipulative tactics behind the scenes. Their actions do not always align with their professed beliefs.
Lack of Empathy: Like other types of narcissists, the self-righteous narcissist lacks empathy for others. They are so focused on their own moral superiority and upholding their image of righteousness that they fail to consider the feelings and perspectives of those around them. They may dismiss others’ emotions or experiences as irrelevant or insignificant.

Impact on Those Around Them:

The self-righteous narcissist’s behaviour can have a profound impact on those around them, both personally and professionally. Their constant need to be seen as morally superior can lead to strained relationships and conflicts with others. Here are some ways in which their behaviour can affect those around them:

Alienation: The self-righteous narcissist’s judgmental attitude and moral grandstanding can alienate those around them. People may feel uncomfortable or insecure in their presence, fearing judgment or criticism for not meeting the narcissist’s moral standards. This can lead to isolation and estrangement from friends and family members.
Gaslighting: In their quest to maintain their image of moral superiority, self-righteous narcissists may resort to gaslighting tactics to manipulate and control others. They may distort the truth, deny reality, or blame others for their own shortcomings in order to protect their fragile ego and sense of righteousness.
Toxic Work Environment: In a professional setting, a self-righteous narcissist can create a toxic work environment characterised by judgment, criticism, and a lack of empathy. Their need to assert their moral authority can lead to conflicts with coworkers and subordinates, undermining team dynamics and productivity.
Relationship Issues: In romantic relationships, the self-righteous narcissist’s rigid belief system and judgmental attitude can cause tension and conflict. Their partner may feel constantly criticised and devalued, leading to resentment and breakdowns in communication. The narcissist’s lack of empathy can make it difficult for them to understand and address their partner’s needs and emotions.
Personal Growth Stunted: Those who are in close proximity to a self-righteous narcissist may find their personal growth and self-esteem stunted. The constant judgment and criticism can erode their confidence and sense of self-worth, making it difficult for them to assert their own beliefs and values in the face of the narcissist’s overpowering personality.

The self-righteous narcissist presents a unique challenge in the spectrum of narcissistic personalities. Their unwavering belief in their own moral superiority and righteousness can make it difficult for others to engage with them in a meaningful and authentic way. Their judgmental attitude and lack of empathy can create a toxic and strained environment in both personal and professional relationships.

It is important for those who are affected by a self-righteous narcissist to set boundaries, practice self-care, and seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals. By recognising the manipulative and controlling behaviours of the self-righteous narcissist and taking steps to protect themselves, individuals can mitigate the negative impact of the narcissist’s behaviour on their own well-being.

Check these out!

15 Rules To Deal With Narcissistic People.: How To Stay Sane And Break The Chain.

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Boundaries with Narcissists: Safeguarding Emotional, Psychological, and Physical Independence.

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