Narcissism is characterized by a high need for control, manipulation, and a lack of empathy. They create an alternate reality and often choose dysfunctional paths to manage their pain. For instance, narcissists might become defensive, refusing to show vulnerabilities, making meaningful discussions difficult.
When managing pain, narcissists may choose options like vengeance or one-upping others to displace their pain onto innocent bystanders. They may engage in blame-shifting, holding onto grudges, and inflicting pain on others. This cycle of anger and contempt leads them deeper into darkness.
Narcissists often turn to mind-numbing alternatives—substances, shallow behaviors, or materialism—to escape their pain. They may use people to feel good in the moment, only to discard them later, repeating the cycle. They tend to be cynical, sarcastic, and critical, avoiding introspective thinking.
We all experience moments of darkness and frustration. Narcissists guarantee their own personal collapse by embracing that darkness instead of seeking non-painful alternatives.
Lifelong Learning
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!
