The Covert Narcissism Podcast

The Silent Signals: How Covert Narcissists Use Nonverbal Communication to Control

Feb 9, 2025

16:46

Have you ever felt like you were walking on eggshells, analyzing every glance, every sigh, every subtle shift in body language—just trying to figure out what went wrong this time?

Covert narcissists don’t always use words to manipulate, dismiss, or control. Sometimes, their most powerful weapon is silence itself. A heavy sigh, an eye roll, a dismissive shrug—these small, seemingly insignificant gestures carry messages that cut deep. And when words and actions don’t align, you’re left questioning your own reality.

In this episode, I share a deeply personal story of how nonverbal communication was used to control, punish, and erode my sense of self—without a single word being spoken. We’ll uncover:
🔹 The subtle nonverbal cues that signal arrogance, entitlement, and silent disapproval.
🔹 How covert narcissists use body language to gaslight and emotionally withdraw.
🔹 The devastating impact of this form of manipulation—and how to spot the red flags.
🔹 The key differences between genuine nonverbal communication and the learned, performative gestures of a narcissist.
🔹 How to protect yourself, set boundaries, and reclaim your sense of reality.

If their words say, “I love you,” but their body language screams, “You don’t matter,” you are not imagining it. The mixed signals are real, and you deserve clarity.

Listen now to break free from the silent manipulation and start trusting what you feel—not just what they say. Subscribe for more insights on covert narcissism and healing

Because your story matters, and you deserve to be heard—without judgment. 💙

I am Renee Swanson, and I help people recover from covert narcissistic abuse.