11 Strange Narcissistic Behaviours: Signs of Manipulation, Control, and Emotional Abuse

Understanding Narcissistic Behaviors: 11 Signs You Should Recognize

Narcissists often exhibit behaviours that seem strange, perplexing, and even unsettling. These behaviours are not just odd quirks; they are part of a broader strategy to manipulate and control others while maintaining a false sense of superiority. Narcissistic manipulation tactics are designed to shift blame, deflect responsibility, and assert dominance in subtle but powerful ways. While each narcissist may express these behaviours differently, they often share similar patterns that can be recognised in various situations.

Behind The Mask: The Rise Of A Narcissist

Here are 11 bizarre yet telling narcissistic behaviors, and how they serve the narcissist’s need for control, admiration, and power.

1. Claiming People Don’t Like You, Then Befriending Them

One of the most common manipulative tactics used by narcissists is creating division between you and others. They may tell you that certain people dislike you or don’t understand you, planting seeds of doubt and insecurity in your mind. Yet, without warning, they’ll turn around and befriend these very people, further isolating you. This tactic serves a dual purpose: it not only makes you feel abandoned and alone but also gives the narcissist the power to control your perception of others. They might even claim that they are the only one who truly “understands” you, positioning themselves as your sole ally.

2. Dry Begging

Dry begging is a passive-aggressive behaviour where a narcissist subtly hints at their needs, expecting others to fulfil them without directly asking. For example, they might say something like, “It would be nice if someone helped with this,” or “I could really use a break.” Instead of making a clear request, they wait for someone to offer assistance, often manipulating them into feeling obligated. This tactic gives the narcissist the satisfaction of being taken care of without having to ask for help, while leaving others feeling guilted into action.

3. Ruining Special Occasions

Narcissists often have a need to be the center of attention, and they will go to great lengths to ensure that they are the focal point of any situation—even if it means ruining significant events. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or a celebration, narcissists have a tendency to create drama, sulk, or start conflict, making the occasion all about them. They can’t stand the idea of anyone else getting attention or enjoying happiness, as it threatens their inflated sense of self-importance. For a narcissist, the celebration isn’t about the person being honoured; it’s about proving that they deserve the spotlight.

4. Impressing Strangers Over Caring for Their Family

Narcissists often prioritise impressing strangers, over nurturing meaningful relationships with their own families. They are more concerned with how others perceive them than with maintaining loving, genuine connections with those closest to them. For example, they might spend hours curating the perfect social media post but neglect spending quality time with their spouse or children. This need to project an idealised image to the outside world often comes at the expense of real, caring relationships.

5. Playing the Victim

One of the most classic narcissistic behaviours is playing the victim. Even when they are clearly at fault, narcissists will twist the narrative to make themselves appear as though they’ve been wronged. They often use guilt, sympathy, and emotional manipulation to make others take their side and excuse their behaviour. Whether it’s blaming their partner for a failure or accusing their coworkers of sabotaging their success, narcissists have mastered the art of deflecting accountability and shifting the blame onto others. This tactic ensures that they never have to take responsibility for their actions and can always position themselves as the injured party.

6. Mocking with Noises

Narcissists may use childish noises or exaggerated sounds to mock and belittle others. This behaviour is a subtle form of humiliation meant to provoke a reaction and undermine the confidence of the person they are targeting. It’s often used to deflect attention away from their own flaws and shortcomings, turning the focus onto the victim instead. Whether it’s mimicking someone’s voice or making fun of them in an exaggerated way, mocking noises are a tool of emotional manipulation and control.

7. Jealous of Their Own Children

A narcissist’s need for admiration and attention doesn’t stop with other adults; it can extend to their children as well. Narcissists often feel jealous when their children receive praise or attention, especially if that admiration threatens their sense of superiority. They might undermine their child’s accomplishments, belittle their success, or even try to outshine them. This behaviour stems from the narcissist’s belief that they are always the most important person in any room, including their own family.

8. Refusal to Answer Simple Questions

When a narcissist is asked a straightforward question, they might refuse to answer or give a vague, non-committal response. This behaviour is a subtle form of control and manipulation. By withholding information, they maintain power over the situation and keep the upper hand in the conversation. Sometimes, this tactic is used to frustrate others, making them feel confused or questioning their own perceptions. The goal is to create an emotional imbalance and ensure that the narcissist remains in control.

9. Walking Ahead

One of the more peculiar behaviours exhibited by narcissists is when they walk ahead of you in casual situations. Whether you’re walking through the house or strolling down the street, the narcissists will intentionally place themselves a few steps ahead, asserting dominance and superiority. This subtle but effective tactic serves to remind you that they are the most important person in the interaction, and you are merely trailing behind. In public or private, narcissists like to keep you off-balance and constantly aware of their perceived status.

10. Weaponised Incompetence

Weaponised incompetence is a tactic where a narcissist deliberately pretends to be unable to perform a task or fulfil a responsibility, knowing that someone else will step in to do it for them. This behaviour is a way of avoiding responsibility while maintaining control. For example, a narcissist might “forget” to do household chores, only to later claim they “don’t know how” or “can’t handle it.” The goal is to manipulate others into doing the work for them, ensuring that the narcissist doesn’t have to lift a finger while maintaining the upper hand.

11. Road Rage

Narcissists often display extreme road rage because the act of driving is another opportunity to assert dominance and control. They may cut people off, tailgate, or react aggressively to minor infractions. The road becomes a stage where the narcissist can express their anger and frustration, feeling entitled to take over the situation. This behaviour reflects their need to control every environment they’re in, from the workplace to the road. Road rage is not just about frustration—it’s about asserting their superiority and demonstrating that they are the most important driver on the road.

9 Bizarre Narcissistic Behaviours: How to Recognise and Protect Yourself from Manipulation

The strange and often perplexing behaviours exhibited by narcissists are not just random quirks—they are part of a calculated effort to maintain control, gain validation, and assert dominance in every situation. Whether it’s walking ahead to assert superiority, ruining special occasions to keep the spotlight, or using weaponised incompetence to avoid responsibility, narcissists constantly manipulate their environment to suit their needs. Understanding these behaviours is crucial for protecting yourself from emotional abuse and manipulation. By recognising these patterns, you can begin to set clear boundaries, trust your instincts, and regain control of your life.

Check these out! 

Behind The Mask: The Rise Of A Narcissist

15 Rules To Deal With Narcissistic People.: How To Stay Sane And Break The Chain.

A Narcissists Handbook: The ultimate guide to understanding and overcoming narcissistic and emotional abuse.

Boundaries with Narcissists: Safeguarding Emotional, Psychological, and Physical Independence.

Healing from Narcissistic Abuse: A Guided Journal for Recovery and Empowerment: Reclaim Your Identity, Build Self-Esteem, and Embrace a Brighter Future

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