Yes, a narcissist can indeed enjoy leaving people out and excluding them from certain situations or activities. This behavior aligns with their need for power, control, and superiority over others. Here are some reasons why a narcissist might engage in this kind of behavior:
Seeking Control: By excluding people, especially those they perceive as a threat or competition, narcissists assert their dominance and maintain control over social situations. They enjoy having the power to decide who is included and who is not.
Creating a Hierarchy: Narcissists often view the world in terms of hierarchies where they see themselves as superior to others. Leaving people out reinforces this hierarchy and makes them feel more important and special compared to those they exclude.
Boosting Ego: Excluding others can give narcissists a sense of superiority and validation. They believe that being the one to decide who is worthy of inclusion is a testament to their importance.
Manipulation and Punishment: Narcissists may use exclusion as a manipulative tool to punish those who don't comply with their demands or challenge their authority. By making others feel left out, they can instill fear and obedience.
Attention-Seeking: By leaving people out, narcissists can draw attention to themselves. They might enjoy the drama and attention that comes from others questioning their actions or trying to figure out the reasons behind the exclusions.
Fueling Insecurity: Narcissists often thrive on creating insecurity and uncertainty in others. When they leave people out, it can make those individuals question their worth and seek the narcissist's approval even more intensely.
Divide and Conquer: By excluding certain individuals from groups or social circles, narcissists can create divisions among people. This tactic allows them to maintain control by pitting individuals against each other and weakening potential alliances that could challenge their authority.
It's important to note that not every narcissist will display all of these behaviors, as individuals can vary in their specific traits and manipulative tactics. However, if you encounter someone who consistently engages in a pattern of exclusion and manipulative behavior, it's essential to recognize the red flags and consider setting healthy boundaries or seeking support to protect your well-being. Dealing with a narcissistic person can be challenging, so it's crucial to prioritize your mental and emotional health.