Yes, it is not uncommon for narcissists to try to make others believe that they are the ones who have narcissistic traits. This tactic is known as "projection." Projection is a defense mechanism used by narcissists (and others) to protect their own self-esteem and avoid taking responsibility for their actions or behaviors.
By accusing someone else of being a narcissist, the narcissist attempts to deflect attention away from their own problematic behavior and faults. They may try to make you doubt yourself, question your sanity, or feel guilty, all of which can serve to keep you under their control and prevent you from recognizing their true nature.
Here are some ways narcissists might use projection to make you think you are a narcissist:
Accusing You of Lack of Empathy: Narcissists often lack empathy themselves, but they may accuse you of being uncaring or selfish, projecting their own traits onto you.
Labeling You as Manipulative: Narcissists are skilled manipulators, but they might accuse you of being manipulative, especially when you try to assert your needs or set boundaries.
Blaming You for Their Problems: Instead of taking responsibility for their actions, they might shift the blame onto you, making you feel guilty or responsible for their emotional state.
Projecting Their Grandiosity: Narcissists have grandiose self-images, but they may claim that you have an inflated ego or are excessively self-centered.
Accusing You of Attention-Seeking: Narcissists often crave attention, but they might project this trait onto you, accusing you of seeking attention or validation.
Gaslighting: Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic where the narcissist denies or distorts your reality, making you question your own perception of events. This can make you doubt yourself and your own judgment.
Remember that narcissists are masters of manipulation, and their primary goal is to maintain control and protect their fragile self-esteem. By projecting their negative traits onto you, they can confuse and manipulate you, making it more challenging for you to recognize their harmful behavior.
If you find yourself in a situation where someone is accusing you of being a narcissist or you're experiencing emotional manipulation, it's crucial to seek support from trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional who can provide objective guidance and help you navigate the situation.