Dr. David Hawkins talks about the 3 common narcissistic behaviors. He shares how Narcissism is fueled by pride, denial and secrecy. Self-love and selfishness continues when men continue to hide their destructive behavior. As their behavior is exposed, by some “breakdown that leads to a breakthrough,” his behavior, attitudes and thinking errors can possibly be changed.
3 Common Narcissistic Behaviors
Dealing with narcissistic individuals can be challenging and emotionally draining. Their common narcissistic behaviors are often fueled by a combination of denial and pride, making it difficult for them to acknowledge the harm they cause to others. In this article, we will explore three common narcissistic behaviors, emphasizing the power of denial, the role of pride, and the dangers of collusion.
The Power of Denial
Denial is one of the most common narcissistic behaviors used as a defense mechanism employed to shield themselves from acknowledging their harmful actions. For them, admitting fault or taking responsibility is a threat to their fragile self-image. Instead of facing the truth, they engage in self-deception, denying the extent of their abusive behavior.
When confronted with the consequences of their actions, narcissists often downplay the severity of their behavior, opting for a sanitized version of events. They minimize their abuse, referring to it as minor conflicts or temporary lapses in judgment. By distorting reality, they maintain control and avoid facing the depth of their destructive behavior.
Fueling Narcissism
Pride and Arrogance: At the core of one of the common narcissistic behaviors lies an excessive sense of pride and self-importance. Although narcissists may not openly admit their self-obsession, their actions and attitudes reveal their belief that they are superior and deserving of admiration. Their love for themselves, more than anything else, drives their actions.
This inflated pride sustains their narcissistic tendencies, as they seek power and control over others. They prioritize their own needs and desires, disregarding the well-being and emotions of those around them. Their relationships become one-sided, with the narcissist manipulating and exploiting others to fulfill their own agenda.
Collusion
The Silent Enabler: Collusion is the third of the most common narcissistic behaviors and refers to the complicit behavior of those who enable the narcissistic individual. It often occurs when victims of narcissistic abuse find themselves questioning their own experiences and minimizing the severity of the abuse. The narcissist’s insistence that the problems are minor, coupled with the victim’s desire for stability, can lead to a shared belief that a band-aid solution will suffice.
The collusion further perpetuates the cycle of abuse, as the victim’s voice is silenced, and the truth remains hidden. In these situations, both the narcissist and the victim collude in denying the reality of the abusive behaviors, allowing the narcissist to continue their destructive patterns unchecked.
Conclusion
Recognizing the common narcissistic behaviors is essential for those affected by their actions. Understanding the power of denial, pride, and collusion can help victims regain clarity and take steps towards healing. It is crucial to break free from the cycle of abuse by embracing your truth, seeking support, and considering safe strategies to encourage the narcissist’s breakdown and potential breakthrough.
However, it’s important to note that changing narcissistic behavior ultimately depends on the willingness and self-reflection of the individual. Victims should prioritize their safety and well-being and, if necessary, consider seeking professional help to navigate their way out of abusive relationships.
Remember, you deserve to live a life free from abuse and to be treated with respect and dignity.
To learn how we can help, reach out to us at (206) 219-0145 or info@marriagerecoverycenter.com to speak with a Client Care Specialist
Also read: How to Determine if your Narcissist can Change
About Dr. Hawkins:
The internet is inundated with hyperbole and misinformation about narcissism, leaving many people confused and hopeless. Get the facts on narcissism and emotional abuse from someone who has been researching, writing about and treating narcissism and emotional abuse for over a decade.
Dr. Hawkins is a best-selling author and clinical psychologist with over three decades of experience helping people break unhealthy patterns and build healthier relationships.
He is the founder and director of the Marriage Recovery Center and the Emotional Abuse Institute which offers education, training and counseling for people who want to break free of, and heal from, emotional abuse. Whether the perpetrator of the abuse is your spouse, partner, parent, boss, friend or family member, we offer practical advice for anyone trapped in a toxic, destructive relationship.
In addition to narcissism & emotional abuse, you’ll learn about the lesser known forms of abuse, including covert abuse, reactive abuse, spiritual abuse, secondary abuse, relationship trauma and much more.
