Yes, someone can still be classified as a narcissist even if they are not physically and verbally abusive. Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, a lack of empathy for others, and a sense of entitlement. Narcissists often have an inflated view of themselves and believe they are superior to others.
While some narcissists may display physically and verbally abusive behaviors, not all of them do. Narcissism can manifest in various ways, and not all narcissists resort to physical or overt verbal abuse. Instead, they may engage in more subtle and manipulative forms of emotional abuse, such as gaslighting, belittling, passive-aggressive behavior, and controlling tactics.
It's important to note that individuals with narcissistic traits can still have different levels of severity, and not all of them may have a diagnosable Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). However, their behavior can still have a significant impact on the people around them, causing emotional distress and damage to relationships.
It can be challenging to recognize emotional abuse, especially when it is not as overt as physical or verbal abuse. If you suspect that someone in your life may be displaying narcissistic tendencies and causing harm to themselves or others, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional who can provide guidance and strategies for dealing with the situation.