5 Signs of a Covert Introvert Narcissist and how to respond

5 Signs of a Covert Introvert Narcissist and how to respond


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A person with covert narcissism may appear to be shy or withdrawn Or self-deprecating.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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