Narcissists can exhibit a wide range of behaviors when it comes to handling money, and their financial habits may vary depending on individual factors and the severity of their narcissism. Here are some common ways in which narcissists may interact with money:
Excessive Spending: Some narcissists may engage in extravagant and impulsive spending to maintain an image of wealth, success, and superiority. They may use money as a way to impress others and seek admiration or envy.
Financial Irresponsibility: Narcissists might prioritize their immediate desires and wants over long-term financial stability. This could lead to poor money management, accumulating debt, and neglecting financial responsibilities.
Entitlement: Narcissists may have a sense of entitlement, feeling that they deserve to have whatever they desire, regardless of their financial situation. This attitude can lead to reckless financial decisions and a lack of concern for the consequences.
Exploitation: In some cases, narcissists may use financial resources to manipulate or control others. They may withhold money or financial support as a way to maintain power and dominance in relationships.
Difficulty Sharing Financial Control: Narcissists often struggle with giving up control, including in financial matters. They might resist joint financial decisions or refuse to consider the needs or opinions of others when it comes to money matters.
Inconsistent Financial Priorities: Narcissists may prioritize spending on themselves, seeking admiration and validation through material possessions. They might disregard financial responsibilities that do not align with their self-focused goals.
Financial Dependency: While some narcissists may engage in controlling others financially, others may become financially dependent on others due to their irresponsibility or inability to manage money effectively.
It's important to note that not all individuals with narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder will demonstrate these behaviors. Some narcissists may have better financial management skills, particularly if they value their public image and self-presentation. Others may be able to compartmentalize their narcissistic tendencies and display responsible financial behavior in specific contexts.
In any case, dealing with a narcissist's financial behavior can be challenging, especially if it affects your financial well-being or relationships. If you are in a relationship with a narcissist and are concerned about financial issues, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from a financial advisor and consider seeking support from therapists or counselors familiar with narcissistic personality traits.