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1. “I don’t even know why you’re upset…”👉 Gaslighting & denial.The narcissist pretends confusion and innocence, denying wrongdoing. This makes the victim question whether their feelings are valid. 2. “You don’t realize how lucky you are…”👉 Entitlement & superiority.They imply the victim should feel grateful for tolerating mistreatment, flipping the dynamic so the victim feels…

The link between relationship status and romantic interest. We are all familiar with the concept of forbidden fruit, where something that is off-limits is viewed as more desirable. In a romantic context, this often includes an attraction to someone else’s spouse or partner. We justifiably denounce mate poaching in any context. Yet we sometimes accuse narcissists of…

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a complex and nuanced mental health condition defined by grandiosity, a deep need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it impacts a small yet significant portion of the U.S. population, approximately 1% to 2%. Individuals with NPD tend to engage in…

Mental and physical health are two sides of the same coin. Just as you prioritize fitness and nutrition, understanding and caring for your mind is essential for a truly healthy life. That’s why at fitnesshacksforlife.org, we’re focused on expanding the conversation—and the care—around mental well-being. What is Mental Health Awareness? Mental Health Awareness is the…

Distinguishing what you can and can’t change is key. Estrangement is most usually accompanied by pushback and fallout. Smear campaigns often seek to injure the estranged party socially. The bottom line is to accept the loss. Source: Photograph by by Katernya Hliznitsova. Copyright free. Unsplash. Alicia’s decision to estrange from her family of origin had…

Everything is going to fall apart. My child is going to get into an accident. I could never accomplish anything even close to great. I don’t have any special skills. I don’t think that my family will be okay. I probably won’t be able to handle it if something does happen to me or someone…

How self-views evolve over the lifespan. Some types of narcissism are more interpersonally harmful. Many people age out of narcissism over their lifetime. In contrast to narcissism, self-esteem often includes prosocial orientation. Most people know a narcissist—at least in the practical, although not necessarily clinical sense. Usually, this is someone who holds themselves in high…

Female narcissists can be particularly subtle in their manipulations. Unlike the stereotypical overtly aggressive narcissist, many women with narcissistic traits use charm, feigned vulnerability, and indirect tactics to maintain control. One hallmark of female narcissism is deniability—no matter what they do, they can make it appear innocent, misinterpreted, or someone else’s fault. Recognizing these behaviors…

Toxic communication behaviors can take a serious toll on your mental health, especially when they occur in personal relationships. Two of the most damaging tactics are gaslighting and stonewalling. Both are frequently used by narcissistic or controlling individuals to manipulate, dominate, or isolate their partners, family members, or colleagues. Recognizing these behaviors early is essential…