5 Signs of a Covert Introvert Narcissist and how to respond
What is Covert Narcissism
According to medicalnewstoday , the Covert narcissist is a term to describe
a person with
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
(NPD), but it does not refer to that great sense of self-importance
according to psychologists as a feature of the condition. So he may appear
to be a shy character or in disguise. So it is called covert narcissism or
introverted narcissism.
In this article, we discuss covert narcissism in more detail, including
the signs and causes. We also explain how a person might respond to
narcissistic behavior.
Narcissism:
It is a general term that includes several personal characteristics,
including: the primacy of self-interest, and an absolute sense of
entitlement, vanity and lack of sympathy
Overt narcissism versus Covert narcissism :
Experts have divided narcissistic personality disorder into two
sub-types:
Grandiose narcissism and vulnerable narcissism. Or, as some call them,
overt and covert narcissism
Both types of narcissism share the same traits, such as the need to be
liked and the lack of empathy for others. However, the external behavior
of each subspecies can be completely different.
People with overt narcissism are usually open, bold and
attention-seeking, and they may become aggressive or violent if they feel
criticized or attacked. The secret sub-type is less clear.
A person with covert narcissism may appear to be shy or withdrawn Or
self-deprecating. However, he would still close himself and think he was
better than others.
Signs of covert narcissism:
1- An inner feeling of superiority:
Researchers say that while people with covert narcissism appear to be
humble, they believe they are superior to others. As a result, they avoid
situations or tasks that challenge this sense of superiority. For example,
they might avoid doing something that they think diminishes their
value.
Narcissists and introverts can be more difficult to define, at least
initially. They tend to make notes (judge) rather than act, and listen
(listlessly) rather than verbally.
When they do speak, their comments tend to be critical and judgmental,
with an emphasis on their arrogant opinions This seemingly impenetrable
arrogance is of course a facade that covers the sense of vulnerability
within. Part of the insecurity may be the inability to communicate
meaningfully with people as human beings.
2- Self-absorption:
One of the most common characteristics of an introverted narcissist
is a sense of "withdrawal, self-centeredness." While many introverted people
are more calm but good listeners, introverted narcissists tend to be
conservative and weakly listening. Often times, they will make a quick
assessment of a person or situation, and find it uninteresting, flawed, or
unworthy of their attention.
They tend to focus only on what they want selfishly and everything else in
their eyes may be described as "boring" or "stupid".
3- Avoid social situations:
People with covert narcissism may lack an interest in socializing or avoid
social situations due to social anxiety, fear of comparing themselves to
others, or envy.
4- Excessive sensitivity to criticism:
People with narcissistic personality disorder, vulnerable or secretive, are
extremely sensitive to criticism. They may perceive that they are being
insulted even that others have not intended, and they may interact with
others in a very defensive manner, or they may act in a passive or
aggressive manner if they think that someone has underestimated them.
5 - lack of empathy for others:
Both extroverted narcissists and introverts share this trait. Narcissists
are often oblivious to or reject the thoughts and feelings of others. Even
when you tell them how their attitudes and actions lead to negative
consequences, they will respond more about themselves. No matter how
agonizing you are from their behavior, they will not feel any sympathy for
them
Causes:
According to the American Psychological Association, personality disorders
are generally associated with:
- Genetics causes
- Childhood trauma
-
Verbal or sexual abuse
People with covert narcissism may have one or both parents who exhibit
similar traits, or abuse them as children. Psychologists don't yet
understand why some people develop covert NPD rather than overt NPD.
How to respond to the covert narcissist
1- Setting personal boundaries:
However, it is very important for this person to draw boundaries with the
narcissist. For example, a person can limit their interactions with a friend
or family member with NPD , so that they only see them on specific days or
for certain periods. Also, the process of sharing ideas and personal data
that they share with them should be limited If the abuse, manipulation, and
disrespect of personal boundaries continues with the narcissist, you may
need to stop contacting them altogether.
2- Do not take it personally:
You should realize that these negative comments and verbal abuse by the
narcissist are not related to you, but they are defensive methods to cover
up his shortcomings and his low self-esteem. Therefore, do not burden
yourself with the issue of changing it, because this is not an option
3: Do not engage in believing their lies:
Narcissists of all types often look to people who are dependent, have low
self-esteem, or people who are easy to fall into the trap of their lies.
“These lies may be personal, aimed at insulting or belittling you, or in
general, aiming to make them feel special. Either way,“ if you don't fall
into the trap and give them a chance to believe them, they won't win. ”
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Source: medicalnewstoday
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