When a narcissist is in a rage, their behavior may appear intense and out of control, leading some observers to describe them as being "possessed." This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors:
Intense emotions: Narcissists have a fragile sense of self-esteem and often struggle with feelings of inadequacy and vulnerability. When something triggers these feelings, they may experience overwhelming emotions like anger, fear, or shame. Their emotional intensity can be frightening and seem as if they have lost control.
Lack of emotional regulation: Narcissists often lack healthy coping mechanisms and emotional regulation skills. As a result, they may struggle to manage their emotions effectively, leading to explosive outbursts and rage when they feel threatened or criticized.
Sense of entitlement: Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and believe they deserve special treatment. When their expectations are not met or when they perceive any challenge to their perceived superiority, they may respond with rage to protect their fragile self-image.
Projection: Narcissists tend to project their negative feelings onto others. Instead of taking responsibility for their emotions or actions, they may externalize blame and direct their rage toward others, seeing them as the source of their distress.
Lack of empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Narcissists have limited capacity for empathy, so they may not consider the impact of their rage on those around them, further exacerbating their behavior.
Manipulative tactics: In some cases, narcissists may use rage as a tool to control and manipulate others. They may use fear and intimidation to maintain power and dominance in relationships.
Splitting: Narcissists often engage in black-and-white thinking, where they view people and situations as either all good or all bad. When someone is perceived as a threat or challenge, they may demonize them in their mind, intensifying their rage response.
It's important to note that not all narcissists will display extreme rage, and individuals with other personality disorders or emotional issues can also experience intense emotional reactions. Additionally, the term "possessed" is not a clinical term and should not be taken literally. Instead, it is a way to describe the seemingly uncontrollable and frightening behavior that may be exhibited by a narcissist during a rage episode.
Dealing with a narcissist's rage can be challenging and potentially dangerous, so it's essential to prioritize your safety and well-being. If you are in a relationship with a narcissist or are concerned about someone's behavior, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or a support group experienced in dealing with narcissistic personality traits.