Yes, someone can still be considered a narcissist even if they haven't been physically or verbally abusive. Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for admiration and validation, a lack of empathy, and a tendency to exploit others for personal gain.
Narcissists may exhibit a wide range of behaviors, and while some can be physically and verbally abusive, others may not resort to such extremes. Instead, they might employ other manipulative tactics to control or dominate others, such as:
Emotional Manipulation: Narcissists can be skilled at manipulating others' emotions and exploiting vulnerabilities to get what they want.
Gaslighting: They may engage in gaslighting, a form of psychological manipulation in which they distort or deny reality to make the victim doubt their perceptions, memories, or sanity.
Devaluation and Discard: Narcissists often devalue and discard individuals when they no longer serve their needs or when they find a more attractive source of admiration.
Lack of Empathy: Narcissists typically have little empathy for others' feelings and are primarily focused on their own needs and desires.
Sense of Entitlement: They may have an excessive sense of entitlement and believe they deserve special treatment or attention.
It is essential to recognize that narcissism exists on a spectrum, and not all individuals who display narcissistic traits will be abusive. Some may have milder manifestations of narcissism that still impact their relationships and interactions with others. Additionally, it is crucial to differentiate between a personality trait like narcissism and a personality disorder like Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which involves a more pervasive and severe pattern of narcissistic behaviors that significantly impair the person's functioning and well-being.
If you are dealing with someone you suspect may be a narcissist or if you are facing challenges in your relationship with them, it might be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional or counselor who can provide guidance and assistance.