When a narcissist is in a rage, it can indeed appear as if they are "possessed" or completely taken over by intense emotions. There are several factors that contribute to this phenomenon:
Intensity of Emotions: Narcissists tend to experience emotions more intensely, especially negative ones like anger and rage. When these emotions take over, their behavior can become overwhelming and appear out of control.
Lack of Emotional Regulation: Narcissists often struggle with emotional regulation, meaning they have difficulty managing and controlling their emotions. When they experience rage, they may have little capacity to rein it in or cope with it effectively.
Loss of Control: Narcissists have a strong need for control and can become enraged when they feel like they are losing control over a situation or a person. The intensity of this feeling can manifest as what appears to be a loss of self-control.
Projection of Insecurities: A narcissist's rage can also be a way to project their own insecurities and negative feelings onto others. They might be feeling vulnerable or criticized, and their rage is a defense mechanism to protect their fragile ego.
Manipulation Tactics: In some cases, narcissists may use rage as a manipulative tactic to intimidate or control others. They might use it to instill fear or gain compliance from their victims.
Lack of Empathy: Narcissists have limited empathy for others, and this lack of understanding of how their actions affect people can lead to explosive and harmful outbursts.
Desire for Dominance: The rage displayed by narcissists can also be a way to assert dominance and power over others. By making people feel afraid or uncertain, they can maintain control over their victims.
It's important to note that while narcissists may appear "possessed" during a rage, this is not a literal possession. Instead, it's a manifestation of their complex personality traits, emotional dysregulation, and an extreme need for control and validation.
Dealing with a narcissist's rage can be incredibly challenging and emotionally draining. If you find yourself in such a situation, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. Setting firm boundaries and seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals can be essential in coping with the effects of being exposed to a narcissistic rage. If you feel unsafe or threatened, consider reaching out to appropriate authorities or support organizations for help.