A couple faces disagreement outdoors in a park setting showcasing emotional expressions.

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Narcissists often manipulate reality to maintain control and undermine others. Here are six common tactics they use:

A couple faces disagreement outdoors in a park setting showcasing emotional expressions.
Photo by Vera Arsic

1. Gaslighting

Narcissists may deny events or twist facts to make you question your memory and perception, leading to self-doubt.

2. Blame Shifting

They deflect responsibility for their actions onto you, making you feel guilty and less confident in your decisions.

3. Love Bombing

Initially showering you with affection, they later use this emotional investment to manipulate you into compliance.

4. Triangulation

Involving a third party, they create confusion and insecurity, making you feel isolated and questioning your worth.

5. Projection

Narcissists often project their flaws onto you, making you feel responsible for their negative behaviors.

6. Minimization

They downplay your feelings and experiences, invalidating your emotions and making you doubt their significance.