While one is able to influence or manipulate a narcissist through his or her need for validation, it often carries certain risks, which are:
Emotional Backlash: Narcissists may react very angrily or in a hostile manner if they feel manipulated. Since their self-esteem is fragile, finding out that they have been influenced may lead to retaliatory behavior intended to criticize, attack verbally, or even harm the individual emotionally or socially
Risk of escalation: One consequence of manipulating a narcissist is that it creates a game of one-upmanship. Perceiving the attempt at manipulation as challenges to their authority, they can get even more controlling and hard to manage. In other words, as time goes on, while the narcissistic person ramps up the attempts to keep things under control, the relationship continues to go downhill in terms of toxicity.
Ethical Concerns: Some people consider it a form of self-defense, but manipulation of narcissists is generally viewed as an ethical concern. It is very easy for a person to violate his or her own ethics through the act of manipulation when trying to get back at narcissists or for some personal gain rather than self-protection.
When Influencing a Narcissist May Be Justified
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