From the manipulation of playing the victim to the subtlety of gaslighting, and from the indirect hostility of passive-aggressiveness to the complexity of emotional blackmailI’ve observed the subtly powerful behaviors that covert narcissists are known for, which are sometimes referred to as “weird behaviors.”
Anyone who wants to protect their mental health against the subtle manipulations of covert narcissism mind must understand these behaviors.
19 Weird Behaviours of Covert Narcissists
Following are the weird things that covert narcissists have the tendency to display in their behavior;
Playing the Victim: Narcissists often cast themselves as the injured party to garner sympathy and manipulate those around them.
Gaslighting: They make you doubt your own perceptions and sanity through denial and falsehoods.
Passive-Aggressiveness: Their indirect expression of hostility leaves you confused about their intentions.
Subtle Degradation: Backhanded compliments are their way of undermining your confidence while appearing to praise.
Guilt-Tripping: They use your empathy against you, making you feel guilty for not meeting their demands.
The Silent Treatment: A form of emotional manipulation intended to punish and control.
Withholding Affection: Narcissists use affection as a tool, offering or withholding it to manipulate.
Manipulative Generosity: Gifts come with strings attached, designed to create a sense of obligation.
Emotional Blackmail: They exploit your fears and vulnerabilities to control your actions.
Projecting Insecurities: Accusing you of their own negative behaviors to deflect attention from themselves.
Chameleon-like Behavior: Adapting their personality to appeal to different people, they lack a true self.
Jealousy and Envy: They can’t stand seeing others succeed or receive attention.
Sense of Entitlement: Believing they deserve special treatment, regardless of their actions.
Fantasies of Grandeur: They are preoccupied with dreams of unlimited success, power, or beauty.
Exploiting Relationships: Viewing relationships as tools for personal gain, not mutual support.
Lack of Empathy: Their inability to understand or care about others’ feelings is stark.
Frequent Lies: They distort the truth to suit their narrative and achieve their goals.
Blame-Shifting: Refusing to take responsibility, they blame others for their faults and failures.
Superficial Charm: Initially captivating, their charm is used to manipulate and deceive.
Breaking Down The 3 Most Common Patterns
1. Masterful Manipulation Through Guilt and Sympathy
Have you ever engaged with someone and felt suddenly and inexplicably guilty even though you had no idea why? Covert narcissists excel in weaving narratives that portray them as the perpetual victim.
This is not an overt manipulation; rather, it is insidious, pulling at your empathy and making you give in to their demands, frequently at your own expense.
Their stories of suffering and misery are more than simply stories; they are skillfully constructed baits meant to pique your interest and control your behavior.
Understanding this pattern is essential. When you experience excessive remorse or a strong desire to help, consider other perspectives. Is it a sincere need for assistance or is it a deception masquerading as vulnerability?
2. The Chameleon Effect: Adapting to Manipulate
Imagine witnessing someone imitate your behaviors, passions, and even viewpoints in an apparent attempt to build a stronger bond with you.
Imitation is a flattering tactic, but when used by a secretive narcissist, it becomes an instrument of control.
In an effort to win people over and acquire favor, they deftly modify their character according to the audience they are now speaking to.
At first, this chameleon-like talent can be endearing, giving you a sense of being particularly understood and appreciated.
But the real motivation is not at all sincere; rather, it is a calculated deception to control relationships and views.
Being aware of this strategy might help you to be skeptical about unexpected changes in behavior or interests, which will motivate you to look for genuineness in relationships and think they have changed.
3. The Art of Subtle Degradation
Covert narcissists are adept at delivering critiques wrapped in the guise of compliments, leaving you questioning both the intent and your self-worth.
This slow deterioration is a kind of manipulation, artfully disguising itself to get past your barriers and sow doubt about yourself.
For example, someone complimenting you on your accomplishments could be followed by an innocuous remark that casts doubt on it.
The first step in protecting your self-esteem is realizing these deceptive comments for what they are: manipulative techniques meant to undermine your self-assurance and boost their so called ego and sense of superiority.
Techniques For Self-Empowerment
Setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and being alert are all necessary when dealing with covert narcissists. Journaling, practicing gratitude and self love activities have proved to be effective in dealing with shattered self image and self worth.
Being able to spot the telltale symptoms of manipulation helps you avoid falling victim to their influence. Setting clear limits is essential since it shows them that you respect them and reduces their ability to control you.
Making self-care a priority will protect your mental and emotional health and enable you to deal with covert narcissists from a position of strength rather than fragility.
Final Verdict
These strategies used by covert narcissists can leave your nervous system to be messed up.
Keep in mind that maintaining your mental and emotional well-being is crucial when managing these intricate relationships.
As we continue to explore the nuances of human behavior together, I am here to support you in understanding and overcoming the challenges posed by covert narcissism. Through empowerment, you can take back the control of your life and finally live a life you deserve without all the pain and trauma.
FAQ’s
What are the weird habits of a covert narcissist?
Covert narcissists engage in passive-aggressive behaviors like giving the silent treatment, making backhanded compliments, and subtly shifting blame to maintain a sense of superiority.
What sneaky things do covert narcissists do?
Covert narcissists use passive-aggressive tactics, such as silent treatment, sarcasm, and subtle insults, to undermine others’ self-worth without direct confrontation.
How do you drive a covert narcissist crazy?
Ignoring them, offering constructive criticism, enforcing boundaries, calling them out, and staying calm in the face of provocation are ways to unsettle a covert narcissist.
What bothers covert narcissists the most?
Losing control and being ignored bother covert narcissists the most, as it diminishes their perceived power over others.
