Episode 4 - The Survival Skills of a Covert Narcissist and their Victim
Dec 15, 2023
Ever feel like you might be the narcissist in your relationship? Discover the unique survival skills learned by victims of covert narcissists that mimic those of their abusers. The podcast dives into how these traits develop in response to trauma, leaving many confused about their own behaviors. Emotional validity is crucial for healing, and recognizing the difference between learned survival tactics and true narcissism is key. Join the exploration of feelings, validation, and the impact of these dynamics on personal well-being.
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insights INSIGHT
Narcissism as Survival Skills
Narcissism is a learned set of survival skills that shape a person's entire personality and interaction style.
These survival skills are defense mechanisms against deep fears of worthlessness and insignificance.
insights INSIGHT
Defensive Tactics as Survival Skills
Narcissists defend their false self-image fiercely through defensiveness and manipulation.
These tactics serve as survival skills to hide their internal feelings of worthlessness.
insights INSIGHT
Manipulating Empathy for Survival
Covert narcissists skillfully manipulate empathy they receive from empathetic partners.
Their victim role is a survival tactic to counter feelings of worthlessness.
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Have you ever wondered if you are the narcissist in this relationship? Maybe you have even been accused of it by your abusive partner? Have you seen glimpses within yourself of narcissistic reactions?
There are very distinct reasons that you see signs of narcissism in you or your children, and they have to do with the survival skills we have been discussing in this series. No, this does not make you a narcissist! I want to explain to you why you see this, what really is happening, and what to do about it.
Narcissism is a learned set of survival skills that becomes one’s entire personality and their way of interacting with their world. Let me explain what I mean. This covert narcissist in your life has put you into an environment where you, over time, begin living from your own survival skills. The trauma responses we have been talking about in this series. I will say again - these are normal and healthy responses to an abusive environment.
One large problem is that they look an awful lot like the survival skills that narcissists live by. They are just glimpses of it, not your entire being, but these glimpses can leave many victims confused and worried.
I am Renee Swanson, and I help people recover from covert narcissistic abuse.
Are you tired of feeling isolated and alone?
Are you searching for people who get it?
Are you confused, reactive and unsure what to do?
Are you running in circles in your mind?
Are you worried for your kids and the effect this is having on them?
Do you want to know how not to raise another narcissist in this world?
I can help you! I offer both group and individual coaching, which you can find at www.covertnarcissism.com
Renee Swanson, Certified Coach and Advocate for Victims of Covert Narcissistic Abuse
The Covert Narcissism Podcast