Covert Narcissists and the Lengths They Will Go to Maintain Their 'Grade A' Supply
Understanding the tactics used by covert narcissists can be crucial for those dealing with their manipulative behaviors. This article delves into the various manipulative strategies these individuals might employ to maintain their 'Grade A' supply—those who consistently provide them with validation, support, and emotional satisfaction.
Increased Manipulation
Covert narcissists, known for their more subtle form of narcissism, often intensify their manipulative behaviors. This can involve guilt-tripping, playing the victim, or using passive-aggressive tactics to elicit sympathy and retain the other person's attention. These tactics are designed to exploit the natural human tendency to feel empathy and a desire to help others. By doing so, the covert narcissist can manipulate their supply into staying close and maintaining an emotional connection.
Love Bombing
A common strategy employed by covert narcissists is love bombing. This involves overwhelming the individual with affection, compliments, and attention. The aim is to win back favor and reinforce their emotional dependency. By bombarding the supply with such positive attention, the recipient may feel emotionally invested and more reluctant to leave or distance themselves.
Gaslighting
To maintain complete control, covert narcissists might manipulate perceptions by distorting reality or denying events. This technique, known as gaslighting, makes the other person doubt their reality, thereby keeping them in a state of confusion and emotional dependency.
Isolation Tactics
Another method used by covert narcissists is isolation. They may try to isolate the individual from their support systems, friends, and family. This ensures that the person feels reliant on them for validation and support, making it more challenging for them to maintain their emotional independence.
Feigning Vulnerability
Covert narcissists might present themselves as vulnerable or in need of help. This emotional manipulation can invoke a caretaker response from their supply, eliciting compassion and connection. By invoking a sense of responsibility and care, they can solidify emotional bonds and keep their supply emotionally engaged.
Threats or Ultimatums
In some cases, covert narcissists might resort to threats or ultimatums. These can be subtle or overt, indicating that the individual will suffer consequences if they withdraw their support or attention. Such tactics are designed to create fear and uncertainty, ensuring that the supply remains compliant and close.
Creating Drama
To keep the focus on themselves and maintain emotional engagement, covert narcissists may escalate situations or create drama. By making the other person feel emotionally invested in the outcome, they can manipulate their supply into staying engaged and invested in the relationship.
Revising History
Covert narcissists often rewrite past events to frame themselves in a more favorable light. By manipulating the narrative, they can make their supply feel obligated or guilty, thereby maintaining their emotional control and ensuring ongoing support and validation.
In Summary
In summary, a covert narcissist may employ a range of emotional manipulation tactics to secure their primary source of validation. These tactics often blur the lines between genuine concern and self-serving behavior. Understanding these dynamics can be crucial for those involved with a covert narcissist to protect their emotional well-being and develop strategies to cope with and navigate these complex and manipulative relationships.
For further resources and support, individuals dealing with covert narcissism might find it helpful to consult professionals such as therapists, counselors, or support groups dedicated to dealing with mental health issues and relationship dynamics. Understanding the signs and patterns of covert narcissism can empower individuals to make informed choices and prioritizes their emotional and mental health.