What is an induced conversation by a narcissist?
Saturday, June 8, 2024.
An induced conversation refers to a dialogue that a narcissist orchestrates to manipulate, control, or achieve a specific goal.
Narcissists often employ various tactics to steer conversations in ways that serve their interests or reinforce their self-image.
Here are Some Common Characteristics and Tactics Used in Narcissistic Induced Conversations:
Steering the Topic to Themselves: Narcissists often redirect conversations to focus on themselves, their achievements, or their needs. They may dismiss others' input or experiences as less important.
"Narcissists have an inflated sense of their own importance and a deep need for excessive attention and admiration. They often monopolize conversations and belittle or look down on people they perceive as inferior." - Mayo Clinic.
Flattery and Charm: To gain favor or manipulate someone, a narcissist might use excessive flattery or charm, temporarily making the other person feel special or valued.
"Charm is a key weapon in the narcissist’s arsenal. They use it to disarm and seduce, drawing people in with their charisma and making them feel uniquely special." - Dr. Craig Malkin, author of Rethinking Narcissism.
Gaslighting: This involves manipulating someone into doubting their perceptions, memory, or reality. Narcissists use gaslighting to maintain control and power in the relationship.
"Gaslighting is a tactic in which a person or entity, in order to gain more power, makes a victim question their reality. It works much better than you may think." - Dr. Robin Stern, author of The Gaslight Effect.
Playing the Victim: Narcissists may present themselves as the victim in various situations to garner sympathy and support, deflecting responsibility for any wrongdoing.
"The narcissist portrays themselves as the victim of others' unfair treatment to gain sympathy and manipulate those around them." - Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist.
Intermittent Reinforcement: They may use intermittent praise and approval mixed with criticism or indifference, creating a cycle where the other person constantly seeks their approval.
"Intermittent reinforcement is a powerful tool used by manipulators to create dependency. The unpredictability keeps people hooked, always striving for that next moment of approval." - Shahida Arabi, author of Power: Surviving and Thriving After Narcissistic Abuse.
Provoking and Blaming: Narcissists might provoke a negative reaction from someone and then blame that person for being overly sensitive or irrational, further undermining their confidence.
"Provocation followed by blaming is a classic narcissistic tactic to destabilize and control their victim. It's about shifting the focus and making the other person doubt themselves." - Dr. Les Carter, author of The Anger Trap.
Triangulation: They might involve a third party in the conversation to create jealousy and rivalry or to reinforce their viewpoint, keeping others off-balance and fostering dependency on the narcissist.
"Triangulation is used by narcissists to manipulate and control by pitting people against each other. It keeps their victims off balance and dependent on the narcissist for validation." - Christine Hammond, licensed mental health counselor.
Deflection and Avoidance: When confronted with criticism or accountability, narcissists often deflect the conversation to avoid addressing the issue, shifting blame, or changing the subject.
"Deflection is a defense mechanism used to avoid direct confrontation and responsibility. Narcissists use it to evade uncomfortable truths and maintain their façade." - Dr. George Simon, author of In Sheep's Clothing: Understanding and Dealing with Manipulative People.
Final thoughts
Understanding these tactics can help you recognize and manage conversations with the narcissists in your circle.
Maintain your personal boundaries and seek support. By doing so, you can protect your emotional well-being and navigate these challenging interactions more effectively.
Be. Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
