Narcissism is a well-defined personality disorder in which the person living with it rarely recognizes that they have it. For the narcissist, the way in which they live seem perfectly normal. These individuals have an urgent need for validation, attention, and recognition at all times. They are totally unaware of the needs of others and do not believe in giving space to people. A narcissist will speak in mostly monologues that are self-focused, seemingly living in a world where they rule and expect others to follow. These tendencies leave them with few if any friends.
They love to dominate and control every situation. In fact, narcissists become angry if they are not receiving some type of special treatment. The causes of narcissism are tied to both genetics and the environment. Every narcissist has an empath and this empath is unknowingly taking the tantrums from that narcissist. In the workplace, this may happen between a boss and subordinate and personally this may occur between a parent and child.
Since narcissists are manipulative by nature, they behave in such a way that the empath feels responsible for what is going wrong in general, but specifically with the narcissist. The narcissist then puts all the blame on the empath to feed the guilt and fear that the empath is creating without realizing it. This is known as gaslighting, but it is basically manipulating someone in a psychological manner so that they doubt their own sanity while creating guilt and fear. This type of behavior allows the narcissist to feel empowered.
Both the empath and narcissist are actually highly sensitive, but there are stark differences in this sensitivity. Narcissists are only sensitive for themselves where empaths are sensitive about the whole world. Most empaths are unaware of the spiritual reasons behind this toxic condition. An empath will continue taking the guilt and blame until they reach a true breaking point. There are specific lessons that an empath can learn from this condition in their lives because unless the lesson is learned, they will continue to fall prey to the same or other narcissists in some form. These lessons are shared below.
Empaths need to understand that they are first responsible for themselves and then others. The way others find happiness cannot come through the empath. An empath needs to look into their need to please others and the habit of people pleasing. A narcissist loves being pleased and keeps creating situations that forces the empath into this role. This creates a toxic environment. So, the empath must learn to stop being a people pleaser.
It has been said that arguing wit ha narcissist is much like being arrested in that everything you say will be used against you. Simply having a discussion or arguing with a narcissist does not bring about positive change because a narcissist is beyond that. An empath must learn to have faith in themselves to decrease the need for approval from others.
An empath also needs to know that a narcissist is unaware of the emotional needs of others and does not care that they are causing pain. If you make them aware of this pain, the narcissism gets stronger. Rather than wasting tears and time explaining, take action to separate from the narcissist. This is about shedding fear.
As an empath, working on the root chakra and solar plexus can be helpful. When an empath emerges as a strong personality and takes action, they will no longer be a favorite of the narcissist. The toxic relationship is about feeding and if this is stopped, then the narcissist loses interest. If you are trapped in this type of relationship, work to better yourself and get out for your own health.
The practical advice provided for empaths, such as focusing on their root chakra and solar plexus, could be beneficial. However, more empirical evidence and case studies would enhance the credibility of these recommendations.
This article does a good job outlining the behaviors and traits associated with narcissism. The emphasis on the roles of both genetics and environment in the development of this personality disorder is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.
It’s intriguing that both the narcissist and the empath are described as highly sensitive, but in different ways. This dual sensitivity dynamic adds to the complexity of their interactions.
The distinction made between narcissists and empaths highlights the complexity of these interactions. The concept of gaslighting being a manipulation technique that fosters self-doubt in the empath is particularly enlightening.
Indeed, understanding gaslighting and its impact on empaths can be a powerful tool for those who are trying to navigate such toxic relationships.
The article suggests that empaths have a significant journey in learning to set boundaries and prioritize themselves. This could be a transformative process for many, changing the dynamics in their personal and professional lives.
Absolutely, the emphasis on personal development for empaths is key. Empowering empaths to break free from these toxic cycles is essential for their well-being.
From a psychological standpoint, this advice aligns well with therapeutic practices aimed at helping individuals reclaim their sense of self.