Narcissistic financial abuse occurs when a person with narcissistic traits or a narcissistic personality disorder uses financial control and manipulation to exploit and gain power over their victims. Here are some examples of behaviors that can be considered as narcissistic financial abuse:
Financial Exploitation: The narcissist may exploit the victim's financial resources for their own benefit without regard for the victim's needs or well-being. They might use the victim's money for personal expenses, luxury items, or investments benefiting only themselves.
Control of Finances: The narcissist may take complete control of the victim's finances, making all financial decisions without the victim's input or consent. This can include controlling bank accounts, investments, and credit cards.
Sabotage of Financial Independence: The narcissist may undermine the victim's efforts to establish financial independence by discouraging them from working or pursuing their career goals. They might also intentionally sabotage the victim's job opportunities or education.
Withholding Financial Resources: The narcissist may withhold financial support, even when the victim is in dire need. They might use this as a tactic to exert control and keep the victim dependent on them.
Forcing Debt: The narcissist may pressure the victim into taking on debt or loans for the narcissist's benefit, leaving the victim responsible for the financial burden.
Gaslighting about Finances: The narcissist might manipulate the victim by distorting financial realities, making the victim doubt their own understanding of financial matters. They may lie about debts, income, or expenses to maintain control.
Financial Blackmail: The narcissist may threaten to reveal embarrassing or damaging financial information about the victim if they do not comply with their demands.
Isolation from Financial Resources: The narcissist may isolate the victim from their family or support network to limit access to financial assistance or resources outside the narcissist's control.
Using Gifts and Financial Rewards as Leverage: The narcissist might use gifts, financial rewards, or promises of financial security to manipulate the victim and make them compliant with their demands.
Stealing Assets: In extreme cases, the narcissist may steal or misappropriate the victim's assets, property, or inheritance.
It's important to recognize that financial abuse can occur in various types of relationships, including intimate partner relationships, parent-child relationships, and between other family members. Narcissistic financial abuse is a form of emotional and psychological abuse that can leave the victim feeling trapped, powerless, and financially vulnerable.
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial abuse or any form of abuse, it's crucial to seek help and support from friends, family, or professional resources such as domestic violence helplines or counseling services.