Narcissists often use a variety of manipulative tactics to maintain control, power, and dominance over others. One of these tactics is gaslighting, which is a form of psychological manipulation where the abuser seeks to make the victim doubt their perceptions, memories, and sanity. When you tell a narcissist that they verbally abused you, they may accuse you of imagining things or being overly sensitive for a few reasons:
Defense mechanism: Narcissists have fragile egos and an intense fear of criticism or rejection. When confronted with their abusive behavior, they may feel threatened and respond defensively to protect their self-image and avoid feeling responsible for their actions.
Denial of responsibility: By gaslighting and denying the abuse, narcissists absolve themselves of any accountability. They refuse to acknowledge their harmful behavior and project the blame onto the victim, making it seem like the victim's perception is flawed.
Control and power: Gaslighting allows the narcissist to maintain control over the victim's reality and undermine their confidence. By making the victim doubt their experiences, the narcissist can keep them emotionally dependent and easier to manipulate.
Invalidation: Accusing someone of imagining things or being overly sensitive is a way of invalidating their feelings and experiences. Narcissists may not want to acknowledge the pain they cause others because it conflicts with their self-centered view of themselves as superior and faultless.
Distraction: By turning the conversation around and making it about the victim's supposed perception problems, the narcissist deflects attention from their abusive behavior. This redirection can confuse the victim and make it harder for them to address the real issue.
Dealing with gaslighting and verbal abuse from a narcissist can be extremely challenging and emotionally draining. It is crucial to seek support from trusted friends, family members, or a mental health professional who can validate your experiences and help you navigate the situation. Remember that you have the right to set boundaries and prioritize your emotional well-being. In some cases, it may be necessary to distance yourself from the narcissist to protect yourself from further harm.