Narcissists commonly engage in a manipulative tactic known as "triangulation," where they turn people against a scapegoat, often a family member or a close associate, to create division and gain more control. This behavior can be highly successful, and there are several reasons why it works so effectively:
Charm and Manipulation: Narcissists are often skilled manipulators who can charm and deceive others. They may present a likable and charismatic persona to people outside the immediate family or group, making it easier to win support and sympathy for their viewpoint.
Emotional Manipulation: Narcissists are experts at playing on people's emotions. They can be very adept at stirring up fear, guilt, and pity to elicit negative feelings towards the scapegoat.
Projection: Narcissists project their faults and negative traits onto others. They may falsely accuse the scapegoat of behaviors and attributes that actually belong to the narcissist, leading others to believe the scapegoat is the problem.
Isolation of the Scapegoat: By turning everyone against the scapegoat, the narcissist isolates them from support and validation. This isolation makes it difficult for the scapegoat to defend themselves or seek help from others.
Splitting: Narcissists often engage in "splitting," a psychological defense mechanism where they view people as either all good or all bad. They portray the scapegoat as the "bad" one, while positioning themselves as the "good" one, further influencing others' perceptions.
Collective Narcissism: In some cases, there may be an element of collective narcissism involved. Collective narcissism refers to the belief that one's group is superior and deserves special treatment. When a narcissist convinces others that the scapegoat is somehow threatening or harming the group's image, they can rally support for their cause.
Fear of Reprisal: People may fear standing up to the narcissist or supporting the scapegoat due to potential retaliation. Narcissists can be vengeful and may use fear tactics to maintain control over their social circles.
Manipulation of Information: Narcissists can manipulate information to fit their narrative, making it appear as if the scapegoat is the source of problems or conflicts.
It is essential to recognize these manipulative tactics and question the validity of the narratives presented by narcissists. Encouraging open communication and seeking objective perspectives from others can help avoid falling victim to the narcissist's attempts to turn people against the scapegoat.
In situations where collective narcissism seems to be at play, the dynamics can be particularly challenging to navigate. In such cases, it's crucial for individuals to remain objective and empathetic while encouraging healthy communication and understanding within the group. Professional counseling or therapy can also be beneficial in helping individuals recognize and cope with these manipulative behaviors.