Are introverts narcissistic


Signs of an Introverted Narcissist

Perhaps it’s something about the magnetic allure of narcissistic personalities — or maybe it’s our own dark, inner desires to focus intensely on ourselves that spark interest in narcissism. Whatever the case, we know a lot about the extroverted, grandiose persona typically associated with narcissists — but introverts can be narcissistic, too.

Introverted narcissists are sometimes referred to as covert narcissists because their tactics and ways of getting attention are less obvious and less obnoxious than a “classic” narcissist. But that doesn’t mean that your risk of being manipulated is any lower. Learn more about the signs of an introverted narcissist, covert narcissistic behavior, and why it’s important to empathize with people who have narcissistic personality disorder — a real mental health condition — vs. those with narcissistic personality traits. 

Covert vs. Overt Psychological Behavior 

In psychology discourse, there are covert and overt psychological behaviors. In a nutshell, overt behaviors tend to be obvious in nature, while covert behaviors are more easily hidden. An example of covert narcissistic behavior would be to take on extra work at your job, but doing so only to try and get recognition from your boss: Telling your boss that you’re clearly the most qualified person to handle the extra work (even if it’s not true) would be overt narcissism. 

In real-world interactions, an introverted narcissist may: 

  • Demand constant validation of their talents and skills by downplaying their accomplishments to others: A classic sign of an introverted narcissist might be insisting that they’re untalented, or are perpetually feeling down about their own abilities. However, they’re only doing this to get those around them to pay attention and invest more energy into their egotistical games. 
  • Be unable to handle criticism, but have no issue dishing it out: Like overt or extroverted narcissists, covert narcissists are often incapable of receiving criticism about their actions or words. But while an extroverted narcissist may explode with anger or savage comments when confronted, an introverted narcissist is more likely to hold a grudge and wait for the perfect moment to take revenge. 
  • Only show empathy when there’s a chance to be recognized for doing so: In their personal dealings and relationships, introverted narcissists may be likely to appear altruistic or sympathetic when there’s an opportunity to climb the social ladder by seeming to be kind. 

Spotting an Introverted Narcissist’s Misleading Tactics

Instead of showboating their skills, appearance, or other assets like an extroverted narcissist would, an introverted narcissist is more likely to use more misleading tactics. Pity is often weaponized against those who are unaware that they’re being manipulated. The other signs of an introverted narcissist are: 

  • Claiming to be misunderstood because they are special or otherwise set apart from ordinary people: Introverted narcissists may tell those closest to them that they’re misunderstood, or feel isolated from others because other people have somehow let them down. In reality, introverted narcissists may not always realize that their feelings of isolation come from being difficult to interact with. 
  • Being unable to value the opinions of others, yet don’t feel comfortable sharing their own: Like many introverts, one of the signs of an introverted narcissist might be social anxiety, or an unwillingness to share their inner thoughts. Instead, they may cope with their fragile self-worth by criticizing others.
  • They view themselves as a victim: Introverted narcissists label themselves as victims, particularly in personal relationships. Viewing oneself as a victim lays the emotional burden and responsibility of dealing with interpersonal conflict on the other person, not on the narcissist.

Shield Yourself from Narcissistic Behavior 

Many of the narcissistic individuals we encounter in our day-to-day have narcissism as a personality trait — but a smaller group of individuals have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). NPD is a mental health condition that often results from childhood trauma and emotionally abusive or neglectful family relationships. Those with the disorder develop a different view of themselves and the world around them as a way of coping.

Keep this in mind as you attempt to protect yourself from the introverted narcissists in your life. Here are a few tips for both maintaining the proper boundaries and fostering empathy for an individual who might be suffering themselves:

  • If the individual is a family member, it can be helpful to keep in mind that you’re not responsible for their behavior, only your own. Hurtful words or demonstrations of anger will only make you regret your actions and add to an introverted narcissist’s victim mindset.  
  • Don’t engage with an introverted narcissist if they refuse to accept responsibility for their lies or manipulation. Instead, keep in mind: their behavior isn’t your fault (and if they have NPD, it might not be their fault either). Do your best to remain calm and rational. 
  • Try to put yourself in their shoes—from a distance. Narcissists may seem as though they have life figured out, but in reality, their hurtful words and actions may be a facade that masks their own pain. 
  • Watch out for narcissistic behavior, but don’t self-diagnose, or tell others that they have NPD. If you’re concerned about yourself or someone you love, connect with a therapist or counselor on your own or together for more support.

7 Signs of a Covert Introvert Narcissist

Source: freeimagesdotcom

Narcissism is often associated with its many external manifestations, including attention seeking, grandstanding, superficial charm, lack of reliability, boundary violation, manipulation, and many other traits.

However, not all narcissists are openly grandiose and outwardly intrusive. Researchers and authors have written about the introverted narcissist, variously identified as the covert narcissist, the hypersensitive narcissist, the closet narcissist, and the vulnerable narcissist (1)(2)(3)(4). This subtype of narcissism is more hidden and yet can carry the same self-conceit and negative contagion as its extroverted counterpart.

It’s important to point out that many introverts are not narcissistic. The ones who are, however, may have a way of influencing others around them to feel off-balance and/or insecure.

What both extrovert and introvert narcissists have in common is their employment of an outer veneer of superiority, to disguise their inner sense of vulnerability. While the extroverted narcissist will say, in so many ways, that “I’m better than you,” the introverted narcissist will strongly hint at it.*

While some people may exhibit a few of the following traits at one time or another, a pathologically introverted narcissist tends to dwell habitually in several of the following personas, while remaining largely unaware of (or unconcerned with) how these behaviors affect others.

Below are seven signs of a covert introvert narcissist, with references from my books: How to Successfully Handle Narcissists and A Practical Guide for Narcissists to Change Towards the Higher Self.

1. Quiet Smugness/Superiority

Many extrovert narcissists are fairly easy to spot, with their grandiose mannerisms and attention-seeking machinations. Introvert narcissists, on the other hand, can be more difficult to pinpoint, at least at the outset. They tend to observe (judgmentally) rather than act, and listen (half-heartedly) rather than speak. Yet, their quieter brand of superiority complex betrays itself through aloof detachment and disconcerting nonverbal cues. They may not express their negativity outright, but you get the distinct sense that they are barely tolerant with their lack of eye contact, condescending glare, eye-rolling, dismissive gestures, groans and sighs, high distractibility, quick boredom, impolite yawns, and overall inattentiveness. When they do speak, their comments tend to be critical and judgmental, focusing on their own conceited views.

This seemingly impenetrable smugness is, of course, a front, covering a sense of vulnerability within. Part of the insecurity may be the inability to relate to people meaningfully as human beings.

“One cries because one is sad…I cry because others are stupid, and that makes me sad.”

― from Big Bang Theory

2. Self-Absorption

One of the most common characteristics of an introverted narcissist is a sense of “withdrawn self-centeredness." While many introverts are more quiet but good listeners, introvert narcissists tend to be reticent and poor listeners. Often, they will make a quick assessment of a person or situation, find it uninteresting, flawed, or unworthy of their attention, and mentally tune out (block you out). While most mature adults are capable of recognizing nuances of issues, and giving people the benefit of the doubt, introvert narcissists tend to focus on only what they selfishly want and find agreeable. All else might be labeled as “boring” or “stupid”.

3. Lack of Empathy

“You’re sick? But what about driving me to the mall?”

― Anonymous

Both extrovert and introvert narcissists share this trait. Narcissists are often oblivious to, or dismissive of others’ thoughts and feelings. Even when you tell them how their attitudes and actions are generating adverse consequences, their response will be more about themselves. Such is the self-absorption.

4. Passive-Aggressiveness

Some introverted narcissists deal with disagreeable people or circumstances in passive-aggressive ways. Upon receiving a reasonable request from you, they might say “okay,” “yes,” “of course,” or “as you wish,” then either do nothing, or behave however they please. When you inquire why they didn’t follow through on an arrangement, they may shrug it off with an excuse, or say nonchalantly that their way is better.

5. Highly Sensitive

Psychiatrist Glen Gabbard notes that some introverted narcissists are “exquisitely sensitive." They tend to be affronted by any signs of real or perceived slights, and handle criticism poorly. In the face of negative feedback, some introvert narcissists will defend with an increased sense of superior smugness and dismissal (fight), while others will respond with sullen withdraw (flight). Typically, they will not let on how much the negative experience bothers them, and instead, use their well-rehearsed aloofness to continue their schema.

Of course, not all highly sensitive people are narcissistic. What distinguishes the narcissist is their falsely constructed superiority complex.

6. The “Misunderstood Special Person”

The self-perceptions of some introverted narcissists include notions such as: “I’m special,” “I’m one-of a kind,” “I’m ahead of my time,” “I’m so unique no one understands me,” and “I’m so smart I’m above everyone else.” Statements such as these reveal common narcissistic tendencies of superiority, grandiosity, and entitlement. By constructing the superficial belief that one is “exceptional," the introvert narcissist creates a reassuring role, submerging the fearful and vulnerable true self.

7. Impersonal and Difficult Relationships

As mentioned earlier, part of the introvert narcissist’s insecurity is the inability to genuinely connect with people. To this extent, the aloofness and/or smugness serve as a defensive mechanism keeping people away, lest the narcissist is exposed for her or his interpersonal inadequacies. Some introvert narcissists narrowly focus on self-absorbing work, technology, social networking, small cliques, books, games, fantasies, and/or other endeavors to minimize wider human interactions. These activities may also help them enact their covert, self-important personas.

Source: niprestondotcom

Source: niprestondotcom

For tips on how to deal with Narcissists, see my book (click on title): “How to Successfully Handle Narcissists”.

For tips on how Introvert Narcissists can attain greater emotional and social intelligence, see my book (click on title): “A Practical Guide for Narcissists to Change Towards the Higher Self”.

*Many narcissists have characteristics of both introverted and extroverted narcissism.

© 2016 by Preston C. Ni. All rights reserved worldwide. Copyright violation may subject the violator to legal prosecution.

Inverted daffodils - simply miu - LJ

Now the long-promised - about inverted daffodils.


The idea of ​​the internal structure of the personality of the inverted narcissist is the same:

- small and hated "I";

- a necessary mirror that would reflect his personality;

- narcissistic eating, which makes it possible to feel one's uniqueness;

- shame, which this narcissist avoids in every possible way.

The cardinal difference between the inverted narcissist and the classical narcissist is that he tries to take a subordinate position in relation to the classical variant. And it is closeness with such bright talented and charismatic partners that is his main reward. In other words, "I'm proud of myself to know you." nine0003

He is ready to serve, understand and forgive his partner anything, any humiliation, any antics, because this is love, this is a pure, uncomplicated relationship, and what a blessing that a classic narcissist allows him to get his hands on. But this is a very extreme option, which is not so common, but reflects the general spirit of such a relationship.

Here, too, there is a violation of boundaries, but with its own peculiarity. The inverted narcissist sees his brilliance in his "brilliant" partner. Without him, his charm and charm, he feels like a nobody. If the classic narcissist in childhood was paid attention only when he did something outstanding, then the inverted narcissist received the acceptance of his parents only when he felt like their shadow. He could have a bright mother and father, and since all the qualities of a child in the family were nullified, he could feel good only realizing that he was a child of mom and dad. The other qualities of his personality were useless. And as soon as they meet those brilliant and magnificent, they are immediately fascinated by them. nine0003

On average, these are chronic victims of a succession of narcissists. Those. one partner replaces another and the whole story is the same. They are abandoned quite often, because they readily accept every trick of a narcissistic partner. Inverted narcissists also have perfectionism, which is that they never admit that they are good enough and understanding, and mentally comfortable for their partner. And they are ready to lament and suffer about this, that all the blame for the fact that the beloved is unhappy is solely on them. At a certain stage, the classic narcissist begins to feel that this is already too much. Reflection is good, but not to that extent. nine0003

For example, the classic narcissist says, if you are not what I want, then I will leave you. The inverted narcissist enthusiastically picks up, “Right! Because you really can't bear to live with me. What else can I do for you?" Well, what's the answer? It is not even clear who is manipulating whom. Claims are all immediately accepted, there is no overclocking for self-affirmation. The classic narcissist begins to lose his sense of control over the situation, feels himself becoming a puppet in someone else's game and runs away. nine0003

I must say that the overwhelming majority of inverted narcissists are in the neurotic zone of the spectrum and are aware that something is going on in their relationship with a partner, not that they are not happy, although they are emotionally very attached. They know that their partner is also in trouble, and they try to save him. You can't leave a person in trouble. The partner usually does not want to be saved. Nevertheless, they continue to go to grandmas, psychologists, psychiatrists, sometimes they even drag a partner there (usually completely useless). nine0003

In other cases, when the disorder is really at the level of personal pathology, then this is an eternal sacred sacrifice in the name of a loved one. All this is called "great love with full dedication." Even when the classic narcissist leaves them, they continue to wait and suffer, like Hatchiko, in case he returns, or suddenly changes his mind. After all, I am better than all women / men, but I understand him more than anyone, I know that he / she loves as he wants. No one will understand him/her. It's the kind of egocentric suffering that makes you feel completely unique. nine0003

Well, the situation itself, when you did everything for a person, and selflessly and selflessly, and you were thrown completely vilely and cold-bloodedly, elevates inverted narcissists above the mortal world.

When they are alone, they constantly need to live for someone, listen to someone's desires, save someone. Without this, they do not feel themselves, these actions and reflections of people make their "I" more delineated and clear.

They often go rapturously to complain to friends and relatives, where they tell how wonderfully and uniquely they suffer because they themselves are almost perfect. There is no particular demonstrativeness and drama of hysteroids. They just need others to let them reflect. Tell them that I, unlike you, can love in spite of. Would you be able to? And their suffering is completely unique. Nobody has them. And add feelings of guilt and shame to the interlocutors for the fact that they feel good when others suffer. Inverted narcissists don't need help, they don't need advice, they just don't need sympathy. They need to see that they are better than the interlocutor, even in a state of grief and loneliness. nine0003

In general, interlocutors often get tired and irritated from this conversation-complaint. There is no ordinary division of feelings here, but a simple hanging of one's problems, often with an attempt at manipulation. I suffer so much, and you, if you are a normal person, and not a bastard, owe me ... in general, respond to needs immediately.

True, the inverted narcissist can take on a classic form in a society or relationship where people have very weak narcissistic traits (or so they think they have). This is the case when a husband or wife beaten down at home becomes an eagle or an eagle at work and dunks everyone in the face. This is the so-called aggressive victim, which suffers humiliation in one place, and then takes revenge on the lower or weaker ones. nine0003

Here, in brief. Otherwise, the classic and inverted narcissus are very similar.

19 signs that you are a narcissist and you don't even know it

  • Narcissistic behavior includes complacency, cheating in relationships, and taking advantage of other people.
  • We have compiled a list of 19 typical behaviors of narcissists based on research and expert opinion.
  • This list is not meant to be diagnostic, but it can give you a good idea of ​​whether you or someone you know is a narcissist. nine0047

Narcissistic personality disorder, according to modern psychology, is characterized by "grandness, lack of empathy for other people and the need for admiration."

The traits that make narcissists so difficult to socialize or date - willingness to control people and ruthlessness in meeting their needs - make them effective in moving up the corporate ladder.

To help you figure out if you (or perhaps your boss) is a narcissist, we've combed through the psychological literature looking for patterns of narcissistic behavior. We also spoke with Joseph Burgo, PhD, psychologist and author of The Narcissist You Know. nine0003

Here are 19 common signs of narcissism and how to spot them.

1. You are a bad athlete

Burgo says that some narcissists are bullies, and one of their most annoying traits is being angry when they fail and angry when they win. For example, when they lose a sports match, narcissistic people may try to humiliate the referee. When they win, they may gloat excessively or act cruelly towards the losing side. nine0003

2. You constantly feel unappreciated

People who Burgo calls "grand" narcissists always have a claim on the world. People with narcissistic behavior tend to feel entitled to something better and think they are not getting the recognition they deserve from others.

3. If you are not grandiose, then you are an introvert, oversensitive, defensive and anxious

Psychologists talk about "two faces of narcissism. " On the one hand, this is a hyper-aggressive, super-loud type. But there is also a milder form of narcissism. This is called “covert narcissism,” which is denoted by introversion, hypersensitivity, defensiveness, and anxiety. "Both shades of narcissism had a common core of vanity, arrogance, and a tendency to give in to one's own needs and neglect others," according to Scientific American. nine0003

4. You think everyone else is stupid

Many narcissists are know-it-alls and find it difficult to get along with colleagues and friends because they refuse to believe that they can be wrong about anything. Burgo observed that these narcissists walk around with a marked sense of superiority over others and have a "do it my way or don't" approach when making decisions. 5. You enjoy arguing with people humble colleagues. They also tend to use more explicit language. nine0003

6. You are overconfident

Narcissists often believe that their views are inherently superior to those of other people. But what they really appreciate is the attention they get for holding those views. For example, Burgo argues, a narcissistic person may believe they have a closer connection with God, but it is more important to them that other people recognize this connection and admire their deep sense of spirituality.

7. You think that your anger towards others is justified

"Vengeful" narcissists usually know that vindictive or antisocial behavior is unacceptable. But they feel good about acting this way because they constantly feel like they've been wronged, Burgo said. Moreover, they often take offense at unintended things, that is, they constantly hear people say: “I didn’t mean to say that!”.

8. You enjoy leading others and telling them what to do

Narcissists tend to enjoy leadership positions because they are able to dominate others and satisfy their need for constant positive reinforcement. nine0003

9. You are probably young and male, and possibly an artist

“A monk narcissist is a combination, but being a narcissist as Kanye West is fantastic,” says Western Sydney University psychologist Peter Jonason, expert in social psychology. After 34,653 face-to-face interviews, psychologist Frederick Stinson found that men tend to be more narcissistic than women throughout their lives.

Narcissism is said to peak during adolescence and decline with age. nine0003

10. You hate to feel emotions

“The very fact of having a feeling in the presence of another person suggests that you can be emotionally moved by friends, family, partners, and even the occasional tragedy or setback,” says Harvard Medical School psychologist Craig Malkin. . That's why narcissists hate them.

Emotions "challenge their sense of complete autonomy," he continues. "Recognition of feelings of any kind suggests that they may be affected by someone or something from the outside." nine0003

As a result, narcissists tend to change the subject of conversation when it comes to feelings, especially their own.

11. You are more attractive than other people—or at least you think you are.

Narcissists are generally rated as more stylish and physically attractive, according to a study by University of Washington psychologist Simin Wazir. However, this is not always the case. According to a 2008 study, narcissists rated themselves highly on both appearance and intelligence, but when they took IQ tests, the scores were average. When their peers were asked to rate their narcissist friends on their appearance, the results were lower than those of the narcissists themselves. nine0003

12. Instead of listening, you just wait for your turn to speak

Anita Vangelisti, a psychologist at the University of Texas at Austin, found that narcissists generally prefer to keep the conversation centered on themselves, "making exaggerated hand movements, talking loudly and showing disinterest with "glassy eyes" when others speak."

13. You are a serial romantic

Burgo also identifies a group of narcissists, whom he calls "seducers." These people with narcissistic traits fall in love quickly and easily, often with people they don't know at all. They think that their partner is absolutely perfect - an addition to their own perfection - until the reality sets in when they realize that their partner is not perfect, and then they end the relationship. nine0003

14. You cheat in a relationship and usually leave after about four months of dating

Psychologists Joshua Foster of the University of South Alabama and W. Keith Campbell of the University of Georgia found that narcissists are more likely to cheat once they think their partners are committed to them. They also seem to be in a hurry to convince others to engage in promiscuity in which they are not normally involved.

In the course of his research, Campbell also found that the four-month mark - the obvious peak of satisfaction in any relationship - is usually the limit of how long it takes a person dating a narcissist to see their true colors. nine0003

15. You put some people on a pedestal. associations."

With this ideal in mind, narcissists suck up to people they think are perfect - be it a colleague or a love partner - and then get really disappointed when that person isn't as perfect as they imagined. For a narcissist, everything must be perfect. nine0003

16. You enjoy putting other people down

Narcissistic people deliberately put others down in order to maintain a high positive image of themselves. “The search for admiration is like a drug for narcissists,” says Mitja D. Back, a psychologist at the Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany. “Ultimately, things become very difficult because not everyone is ready to applaud them, so they always have to look for new acquaintances from whom they get their next dose.” nine0003

This also explains why narcissists usually only maintain weak relationships.

17. Your parents ignored and adored you

Research shows that a combination of parental rejection and over-admiration is more strongly associated with adult narcissism than if one childhood experience were permanently present without the other. The inconsistency and biting attitude of parents towards their children will eventually generate a "deep craving for admiration" and cause the narcissist to lead a life seeking fleeting selfish stimuli, according to Psychology Today. nine0003

18. You choose your friends to look cool or take advantage of people

Narcissistic men and women have different ways of choosing friends. Women choose male friends with high social status so that they can feel worthy. Guys choose their mates to be their "co-pilots" when they go out to meet girls, according to a Psychology Today report.

19. You must always be in control

Just as narcissists hate to talk about their feelings, "they can't be at the mercy of other people's preferences," says Malkin. "It reminds them that they are not invulnerable or completely independent - that, in fact, they may have to ask for what they want - and worse, people may not want to grant this request."

That's why they can control themselves without getting angry. In the case of romantic relationships, narcissists control people with disapproving looks, calls to change plans, and chronic lateness. This allows narcissists to undermine other people's ability to make choices.


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