Yes, it is possible for narcissists to try to make you think you are a narcissist. Narcissists often employ various manipulation tactics and defense mechanisms to protect their self-image and avoid responsibility for their own behavior. One common tactic is known as "projection," where the narcissist projects their own negative traits or feelings onto others.
In the context of making you think you are a narcissist, the narcissist may do the following:
Gaslighting: They may try to distort your perception of reality and make you doubt your own thoughts and feelings. They might claim that you exhibit narcissistic behaviors when, in fact, they are projecting their own tendencies onto you.
Deflection: When confronted with their own narcissistic behavior, they may deflect the attention by accusing you of being the narcissist or having similar traits, in an attempt to shift blame and avoid taking responsibility.
Accusations: Narcissists might be quick to accuse others of being narcissistic to divert attention away from their own actions and manipulate the focus of the conversation.
Devaluation: By making you question your own character and suggesting that you are a narcissist, they can undermine your self-esteem and keep you under their control.
Triangulation: They might involve third parties to support their accusations or plant seeds of doubt about your character, further eroding your confidence and self-assessment.
Remember that narcissists often have a strong need for control, dominance, and admiration. By making you feel like you are the problem, they can maintain power over you and continue their manipulative behaviors without facing any accountability themselves.
It's essential to recognize these tactics and protect yourself from emotional manipulation. If you suspect you are dealing with a narcissistic individual, seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be beneficial to help you navigate the situation and maintain your well-being.