In psychology, the term "flying monkey" is often used to describe individuals who act on behalf of someone else, often a narcissist, to manipulate or harm another person. The concept of flying monkeys is commonly associated with narcissistic individuals who seek to maintain control, manipulate, or exact revenge on their targets.
When a narcissistic person is facing potential exposure or consequences for their actions, they may indeed deploy flying monkeys to further their agenda, protect their self-image, or undermine those who challenge them. These flying monkeys could be friends, family members, or other acquaintances who are loyal to the narcissist and act on their behalf, even if they don't fully understand the situation or the narcissist's true motives.
Flying monkeys can engage in various behaviors, such as spreading rumors, engaging in smear campaigns, invalidating the target's experiences, or attempting to draw the target back into the narcissist's web of control.
It's essential to understand that not all individuals with narcissistic personality traits will use flying monkeys or resort to such manipulative tactics. The behavior depends on the severity of the narcissism and the specific individual's coping mechanisms and interpersonal strategies.
If you find yourself dealing with a situation involving a narcissistic person and their flying monkeys, it's crucial to set healthy boundaries and seek support from trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional. Understanding narcissistic dynamics can help you navigate these challenging situations more effectively and protect your well-being.