Explore how conflicts reveal the true nature of narcissists, showcasing aggression, defensiveness, and manipulation tactics. Learn about healthy conflict resolution and empathy-building to navigate relationships with narcissistic individuals. Dr. Les Carter provides insights on setting boundaries and self-reflection when dealing with narcissistic traits.
Conflict reveals true character, especially when dealing with narcissists.
Healthy conflict resolution involves understanding, validation, openness, and growth.
Deep dives
The Importance of Observing Character in Conflict
Observing how individuals manage conflict reveals the most about their character. An example is shared of a man who portrayed his wife negatively, but in conflict, she displayed a starkly different persona, revealing her true nature. The speaker emphasizes that conflict exposes true character, especially in dealings with narcissists.
Understanding the Narcissist's Behavior in Conflict
Narcissists reveal their nature in conflicts by seeking control, dominance, and superiority. They disregard others' perspectives, aiming to assert power. The narrative delves into how narcissists struggle with empathy, aim for superiority, reject input, and maintain a defensive, egotistical stance, exemplifying their behavior in discord.
Levels of Relationship Engagement and Addressing Conflict Positively
Different levels of relationship engagement are discussed, from basic functionality to empathy and immersion. The podcast outlines insightful questions to enhance conflict resolution, urging listeners to focus on understanding, validation, openness to diversity, steadiness, decency, patience, and growth. Comparisons between healthy approaches and narcissistic tendencies underscore the importance of mature conflict management.
It's easy to be pleasant and friendly when you are in agreement with others. But Dr. C highlights how your level of maturity is on display in the midst of conflict. He discusses a narcissist's starting point when you have differences, then gives a stark contrast by identifying the healthy alternatives.
Dr. Les Carter is a best selling author and therapist who has semi-retired to Waco, TX. In the past 40+ years he has conducted more than 65,000 counseling sessions and many workshops and seminars. He specializes in anger management and narcissistic personality disorder.