Individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) can have complex and varied relationships with people who challenge their behavior or refuse to play into their games. It is essential to remember that not everyone with NPD will react the same way, as personalities and behaviors can differ significantly among individuals with the disorder. However, some common reactions that individuals with NPD might have when confronted or challenged include:
Defensiveness and Anger: People with NPD may react defensively when their behavior is called out or challenged. They might become angry, aggressive, or verbally attack the person challenging them as a means of protecting their fragile self-esteem and avoiding feelings of vulnerability.
Dismissal and Devaluation: Some individuals with NPD may dismiss or devalue those who confront them. They might belittle the person challenging them, label them as inferior, or disregard their opinions and feelings as unimportant.
Manipulation and Gaslighting: NPD individuals are skilled manipulators. They might try to gaslight the person calling them out by distorting the truth, denying their actions, or making the person doubt their own perceptions and judgment.
Seeking New Sources of Validation: Some individuals with NPD may seek out new relationships or sources of validation from people who are more likely to comply with their games and not challenge their behavior.
Idealization-Discard Cycle: In some cases, individuals with NPD might initially idealize someone who challenges them or seems strong and independent. However, once that person starts confronting or setting boundaries, the NPD individual may start devaluing and discarding them as they feel threatened by the loss of control.
Learning to Manipulate the Challenger: In some instances, people with NPD may try to manipulate and control the person who challenges them, attempting to make them play into their games or question their own beliefs and actions.
It is crucial to understand that dealing with someone with NPD can be challenging and emotionally draining. Boundaries are essential when dealing with individuals with this personality disorder, as they may struggle to respect the boundaries of others. It is recommended to seek support from mental health professionals, who can provide guidance on how to interact with someone with NPD and protect your own emotional well-being. Additionally, individuals with NPD who recognize their behavior and are willing to seek help can benefit from therapy to work on their interpersonal skills and improve their relationships. However, it's important to note that change can be difficult for individuals with NPD, and not everyone with the disorder may be open to seeking help or making significant changes in their behavior.