Part 1

Welcome to “The Narcissist’s Playbook,” a seven-part series exploring the tactics and behaviors commonly used by narcissists in relationships and how to protect yourself from them.

In this series, we will delve into the different strategies and techniques narcissists use to manipulate and control their partners, friends, and family members. We will explore topics such as gaslighting, love bombing, triangulation, and more. We will also provide tips and strategies for how to protect yourself and set boundaries with a narcissist, and when and how to seek help.

If you have experienced the harmful effects of a narcissistic individual in your life, you are not alone. The goal of this series is to provide information and support to help you recognize and navigate the complex and often confusing world of narcissistic behavior. Thank you for joining us on this journey.


Warning Signs of Manipulation

Narcissistic individuals are known for their manipulation tactics, which they use to control and exploit others for their own benefit. If you are dealing with a narcissistic person, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of manipulation so you can protect yourself and set boundaries. In this article, we will explore some common manipulation tactics used by narcissistic individuals and how to recognize them.

  1. Gaslighting: Gaslighting is a form of manipulation in which the manipulator tries to convince the victim that their reality is not accurate. For example, a narcissistic person may deny saying or doing something that they actually did, or they may twist the victim’s words to make them doubt their own perceptions. If you are being gaslighted, you may feel confused and unsure of yourself, and you may start to doubt your own memories and perceptions.
  2. Love bombing: Love bombing is a tactic in which the manipulator shower the victim with excessive attention and affection in order to win their trust and affection. This can be especially effective in the early stages of a relationship, and it can make the victim feel special and valued. However, once the manipulator has gained the victim’s trust and affection, they may start to pull back or change their behavior, leaving the victim feeling confused and abandoned.
  3. Silent treatment: The silent treatment is a tactic in which the manipulator ignores or shuts out the victim as a way of punishing them or getting their way. This can be especially effective because it can make the victim feel anxious and unsure of what they have done wrong, and they may start to bend to the manipulator’s will in order to regain their attention and approval.
  4. Emotional blackmail: Emotional blackmail is a tactic in which the manipulator uses the victim’s emotions against them in order to get what they want. For example, a narcissistic person may threaten to harm themselves or others, or they may manipulate the victim’s feelings of guilt or obligation in order to get their way.
  5. Projection: Projection is a tactic in which the manipulator accuses the victim of doing or thinking something that they themselves are doing or thinking. For example, a narcissistic person may accuse the victim of being selfish or manipulative when they are actually the ones exhibiting those traits.

How to protect yourself from manipulation

  1. Set boundaries: It is important to set clear boundaries with narcissistic individuals to protect yourself from their manipulation tactics. This may involve setting limits on the amount of time you spend with them, setting rules for communication, or ending a relationship if necessary.
  2. Seek support: It can be helpful to seek support from a therapist or a support group to cope with the challenges of dealing with narcissistic individuals. A therapist can help you develop coping skills and work through any emotional issues that may arise.
  3. Don’t engage in arguments: Narcissistic individuals may try to engage you in arguments or debates to try to manipulate or control you. It is important to avoid getting drawn into these arguments, as they are often unproductive and can be emotionally draining.
  4. Document interactions: If you are dealing with a narcissistic individual, it can be helpful to document your interactions with them. This can include keeping a record of emails, texts, or conversations, as well as any instances of manipulation or abuse. This documentation can be useful if you need to seek help or legal support.
  5. Seek outside help: If you are being subjected to manipulation or abuse by a narcissistic individual, it is important to seek outside help. This may involve seeking support from a therapist, a support group, or a legal or social service agency. Remember, you deserve to be treated with respect and kindness, and it is okay to seek help if you are being mistreated.

Over the next 6 articles we will dive into each of the Narcissist’s tactics in-depth along with actions you can take to identify these tactics and protect yourself.

Up Next: Gaslighting (releases Dec. 19th, 2022)

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