Narcissists are individuals with a personality disorder characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Their behavior can vary widely, but some common traits and lengths they might go to in order to get what they want include:
Manipulation: Narcissists are skilled manipulators. They may use charm, flattery, and persuasion to gain the trust and support of others, all to achieve their goals.
Exploitation: They might take advantage of others' kindness, resources, or vulnerabilities for their benefit without feeling guilty about it.
Deception: Narcissists can be skilled liars and may deceive others to serve their interests or maintain their self-image.
Gaslighting: This is a form of psychological manipulation where the narcissist distorts or denies reality to make the victim doubt their own perception or sanity.
Emotional blackmail: They may use guilt, shame, or emotional manipulation to pressure others into complying with their wishes.
Isolating others: Narcissists may try to isolate their victims from friends and family to gain more control over them and limit outside influences.
Flattery and love bombing: In the beginning stages of a relationship or interaction, narcissists may excessively flatter and shower attention on others to win them over.
Intimidation and aggression: In extreme cases, narcissists may resort to aggressive behavior, threats, or intimidation to get what they want.
Lack of boundaries: They might not respect personal boundaries and invade others' privacy or personal space to gather information or control the situation.
Hoovering: After a falling-out, narcissists may try to "hoover" their victims back into their lives by using love bombing or guilt-tripping.
Taking credit for others' achievements: They might steal credit for other people's work or accomplishments to boost their own self-esteem and image.
It's essential to remember that not all individuals who exhibit some of these behaviors are necessarily narcissists, as these traits can be present in various personality types. However, narcissists tend to consistently display a pattern of such behaviors, and they can cause significant harm to others and disrupt healthy relationships and social dynamics. Dealing with a narcissist can be challenging, and if you suspect you are in a relationship with one or find their behavior affecting you negatively, seeking support from a mental health professional can be helpful.