While it is possible for some narcissists to admit they are wrong, say sorry, and seek advice from friends to change or fix a situation, it is generally not a common behavior among individuals with strong narcissistic traits. Narcissists often struggle with taking responsibility for their actions and have difficulty sincerely apologizing.
Here are some reasons why sincere apologies and seeking advice might be rare for narcissists:
Lack of Empathy: Narcissists have difficulty empathizing with others, which makes it challenging for them to genuinely understand the impact of their actions on others. This lack of empathy can prevent them from sincerely acknowledging their mistakes and offering a heartfelt apology.
Defensiveness and Blame-Shifting: When confronted with their mistakes or harmful behavior, narcissists are more likely to become defensive and shift the blame onto others. They may engage in gaslighting techniques to manipulate the situation and make the other person doubt their perceptions.
Maintaining a Positive Self-Image: Narcissists have a fragile self-esteem, and admitting fault can be threatening to their self-image as superior and faultless individuals. They may avoid taking responsibility to protect their self-perception as flawless.
Manipulative Apologies: If a narcissist does apologize, it may be insincere and manipulative. They might apologize only to placate the other person temporarily or to regain control over the situation.
Disregard for Others' Advice: While narcissists may seek advice from others, they often do so to gather information they can use to their advantage rather than genuinely seeking personal growth or change.
Resistance to Change: Narcissistic individuals are resistant to change, as it would require them to confront their own flaws and vulnerabilities. They may have a sense of entitlement and believe they are above needing to change.
It's essential to understand that personality disorders, such as narcissistic personality disorder, lie on a spectrum, and individuals may exhibit varying degrees of narcissistic traits. In some cases, individuals with milder narcissistic traits might be more capable of self-reflection and acknowledging their mistakes. However, for those with severe narcissistic traits, genuine apologies and seeking advice for personal growth can be very challenging.
If you are in a relationship with a narcissistic individual, it's crucial to prioritize your own well-being. Establishing healthy boundaries and seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can be beneficial in navigating such relationships. Remember that changing a narcissist is beyond your control, and your focus should be on taking care of yourself.