Confronting Narcissistic Abuse

The objective of narcissistic abuse is power. Narcissists may intentionally diminish or hurt other people. It’s important to remember that narcissistic abuse stems from insecurity and is designed to dominate you. Abusers’ goals are to increase their control and authority, while creating doubt, shame, and dependency in their victims. They want to feel superior to avoid hidden feelings of inferiority. Understanding this can empower you. Like all bullies, despite their defenses of rage, arrogance, and self-inflation, they suffer from shame.  Appearing weak and humiliated is their biggest fear. Knowing this, it’s essential not to take personally the words and actions of an abuser. This enables you to confront narcissistic abuse. Mistakes in Dealing with Abuse When you forget an abuser’s motives, you may naturally react in some of these ineffective ways: Appeasement. If you placate to avoid conflict and anger, it empowers the abuser, who sees it as weakness and an opportunity to exert more control. Pleading. This also shows weakness, which narcissists despise in themselves and others. They may react dismissively with contempt or disgust. Withdrawal. This is a good temporary tactic to collect your thoughts and emotions, but is not an effective strategy to deal with abuse. Arguing and Fighting. Arguing over the facts wastes your energy. Most abusers aren’t interested in the facts, but only in justifying their position and being right. Verbal arguments can quickly es...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Abuse Bullying Codependence Narcissism Personality Psychology Relationships & Love Confrontation Emotional Abuse Gaslighting Manipulation Narcissistic Personality Disorder Source Type: news