In families with a narcissistic individual, other family members, including siblings, may indeed notice that something is not quite right with the narcissistic person's behavior and personality. However, the extent to which they recognize or acknowledge the issue can vary significantly based on several factors:
Normalization of behavior: If the narcissistic behavior has been present since childhood or has been a long-standing pattern, family members may have become desensitized to it. They may have learned to normalize or rationalize the narcissist's behavior as a way to cope with the dysfunction within the family.
Enabling and codependency: Some family members may enable the narcissist's behavior or become codependent on them. They might feel responsible for "fixing" the narcissist's problems or protecting them from the consequences of their actions.
Denial and justification: Family members may deny or downplay the narcissist's negative traits or actions. They might find reasons to justify the behavior or convince themselves that the narcissist's actions are not harmful.
Fear of conflict or consequences: Confronting a narcissistic family member can lead to conflict, manipulation, or retaliation. As a result, some family members may avoid acknowledging the issue to maintain a sense of peace or avoid personal repercussions.
Psychological manipulation: Narcissists can be skilled at manipulating others, including their family members, to maintain control and power. They may use tactics like gaslighting to make others doubt their perceptions or feelings about the narcissist's behavior.
Family dynamics and roles: In some families, certain roles are established, and members may feel compelled to maintain those roles even when they recognize the dysfunction. For example, the "caretaker" sibling might feel responsible for the narcissist's well-being, even at the cost of their own.
Lack of awareness about narcissism: Some family members may not be familiar with narcissistic personality traits and their impact, leading them to misunderstand or misattribute the narcissist's behavior.
It's essential to understand that dealing with a narcissistic family member can be emotionally complex and challenging for everyone involved. Recognizing the presence of narcissistic traits within the family dynamics can be an essential step towards seeking support and understanding healthier ways to cope with the situation. Family therapy or counseling can be beneficial for family members to address these issues and work towards healthier interactions and boundaries.