As one of the most dangerous habits in a romantic relationship, narcissism can corrode the connection over time. Narcissism is defined as an excessive sense of self-importance. It can be equated with pompousness, conceitedness, and egotism. Narcissists don’t practice self-love. Instead, they practice toxic self-adulation that comes at the expense of others.
As they admire themselves and seek attention from others, narcissists often make everything about themselves and neglect their partner’s needs. Over time, the relationship can become extremely one-sided. This blog will help you understand if your partner has narcissistic traits. Based on this insight, make sure you take the right measures accordingly.
1. They Tend to Linger on Their Accomplishments
Narcissists have a habit of excessively fixating on their accomplishments. Try to recall the last time your partner brought up something they had done or accomplished.
Did they simultaneously bring you down by highlighting a weakness of yours in comparison to their success? Did they actively discuss said accomplishment for several days, weeks, or perhaps even months? Did they overshadow your accomplishments by continuing to fixate on theirs?
These are major red flags. They indicate that your partner is reliant on inflating their ego every chance they get, especially by putting others down, so their strengths look more impressive in comparison.
2. They Need Constant Validation
Narcissists suffer a massive blow to their ego when they boast about their accomplishments and don’t get the validation they seek. Your partner may ask you questions like “How great was my [insert accomplishment]?” or “Remember back when I [insert accomplishment]? What’d you think about that?”
While these questions may sound harmless, they become insidious when a) they’re being asked continually, and b) you’re not getting the same validation in return.
3. They Belittle You
Narcissists live in their own fantasy world of self-importance. Their delusions of grandeur compel them to belittle others for the smallest things. This mostly starts off implicitly in romantic relationships. For instance, if your partner earned a promotion at work, they’ll obviously talk your ear off about it and expect you to do the same so they feel validated.
However, if you get a promotion at work, they’ll do the bare minimum and perhaps even belittle you. The belittling is very off-handed in the beginning. You may get a snarky comment here and there. However, make sure you notice these red flags so you can understand what’s happening.
At KB Psychotherapy, we’re committed to helping people heal their relationships. If your partner has narcissistic tendencies, schedule a couple’s therapy session today in Lake Geneva, WI.
We also offer a range of other mental health services, including trauma counseling, depression therapy, anxiety counseling, ADHD counseling, phobia treatment, family counseling, individual counseling, and parenting services. Meet our therapists!