Narcissists often employ subtle manipulation tactics that can be hard to detect. Understanding these strategies can help individuals protect themselves from emotional exploitation. Here are five common tactics used by narcissists:

1. Gaslighting

Narcissists frequently distort reality, making victims doubt their perceptions. This psychological manipulation can lead individuals to question their sanity and self-worth.

2. Love Bombing

At the onset of relationships, narcissists may overwhelm their targets with affection and attention to create dependency and gain control.

3. Triangulation

By introducing a third party, narcissists create jealousy and competition, further manipulating their targets and maintaining power.

4. Silent Treatment

Withholding communication punishes victims, instilling fear and insecurity, ultimately forcing compliance to regain the narcissist’s approval.

5. Projection

Narcissists often project their own flaws onto others, diverting blame and deflecting accountability, which confuses and disorients their victims.