Narcissists are hypocrites. They can talk the talk but rarely walk the walk. By pointing out inconsistencies between their words and actions, you expose the gap between their self-image and reality. For example, if they pride themselves on generosity but act selfishly, bringing attention to this disrupts their constructed identity.
Expect deflection, denial, gaslighting, or personal attacks. Stay direct and simple, and don’t let their attempts to bamboozle you sway your stance.
3. Not Reacting
Narcissists often provoke emotional reactions to feel powerful and in control. By refusing to react, you deprive them of this control, disrupting the validation cycle they rely on.
They may escalate their behavior to elicit a reaction or withdraw temporarily to “punish” you with silence. Ignore them as much as possible. If they become threatening, report them but don’t allow them to manipulate your emotions.
4. Calling Out Lies and False Pretenses
Narcissists are pathological liars. Their lives are built on deception, often acting differently in public versus private. By challenging their lies with facts or evidence, you expose the gap between reality and their version of it.
This can provoke intense defensiveness, anger, or rage. If you choose to confront them, have a witness or two for safety, as narcissists will have a harder time discrediting multiple people.
5. Staying Independent
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