Narcissists typically have a grandiose sense of self-importance and a deep need for admiration and validation. They often lack empathy and have difficulty recognizing or understanding the impact of their abusive behavior on others. Therefore, their reaction to being reported to the police with evidence of their verbal abuse can vary, but some common responses might include:
Anger and Defensiveness: Narcissists tend to react defensively when confronted with any criticism or evidence of their wrongdoing. They may become extremely angry and attempt to shift the blame onto the victim or others involved. They might even deny the evidence altogether and try to invalidate the victim's claims.
Manipulation and Gaslighting: Narcissists are skilled manipulators and might try to gaslight the victim by distorting the truth or making the victim doubt their own perceptions and feelings. They may claim that the evidence is fabricated or that the victim is overreacting.
Seeking Sympathy or Pity: Some narcissists might play the victim themselves, portraying the situation as unfair or exaggerating the consequences they might face. They may try to elicit sympathy from others to gain support and validation.
Retaliation: Narcissists can be vengeful, and reporting them to the police might trigger retaliation. They may try to damage the victim's reputation, spread rumors, or engage in other forms of emotional or psychological abuse.
Indifference: In some cases, a narcissist might dismiss the report and the evidence, showing a lack of concern or empathy for the impact of their actions on the victim.
Minimization and Rationalization: Some narcissists may downplay the severity of their abusive behavior or rationalize it as justified due to external circumstances or the victim's perceived flaws.
It's important to note that the response of a narcissist can also depend on their level of narcissistic traits and the severity of their behavior. Some narcissists may be more prone to explosive and hostile reactions, while others may resort to more covert manipulation tactics.
If you have reported a narcissist to the police with evidence of their verbal abuse, it's crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. Maintain a support network of friends, family, or professionals who can help you navigate any potential fallout from the situation. In cases of abuse, seeking professional counseling or therapy can be beneficial for the victim to heal from the emotional trauma and establish healthier boundaries in the future.