8 Signs Someone Is a Victim of a Malignant Narcissist
A malignant narcissist is a person who has a combination of two personality disorders. These disorders make them extremely manipulative and dangerous. Narcissists have a complete lack of empathy and an innate sense of entitlement.
That is why they crave attention and want to be in the spotlight. According to researchers Grijalva and Zhang, malignant narcissists tend to exaggerate and over-estimate their own abilities. For example, they believe they are smarter or better-looking than others. (1)
Usually, with these feelings, they self-enhance their status and power. These results are based on an IQ test issued by a group of researchers. In fact, such narcissists often challenge reality instead of accepting it.
As a result, there is a chance people like this might become extremely defensive and verbally degrade or attack people around them. Regardless of outside influence, the self-view of a narcissist will never change. (2)
Some of the most common narcissist tendencies include:
- The constant need for admiration
- Arrogant or dismissive behavior
- Extreme self-importance and lack of empathy
- They often exaggerate their talents and achievements
- They are consumed by their personal looks, brilliance, excellence, power, success, and beauty
- Believe to be superior species
What Is a Malignant Narcissist?
The first one to explain the term ‘’malignant narcissist’’ was renowned psychologist Erich Fromm back in 1964. He explained it as ‘’ the quintessence of evil ”. A malignant narcissist is someone that has a combination of psychopathic leanings and narcissism. (3)
Often, psychopaths can’t feel sadness, remorse, empathy, or guilt. In other words, they lack quite a few emotions. A narcissist always craves validation and attention. But, a psychopath couldn’t care less. So, imagine a combination of both of these personalities.
A malignant narcissist is someone who is obsessed with keeping their façade. They believe they are more educated, successful, and generally better than everyone else. Also, they want to keep everything under control.
And to do it, they are willing to sacrifice anything and anyone to get what they want.
How to Recognize a Psychopath?
These are the tendencies of a true psychopath:
- Aggressive
- Anti-social
- Lack of emotion
- Glibness
- Lack of remorse
- Parasitic lifestyle
- Pathological liar
- Superficial charm
- Can’t accept responsibility
Signs of a Malignant Narcissist
Here is how you can recognize a malignant narcissist
1. No Remorse of Conscience
A malignant narcissist is simply incapable of thinking about someone else and putting himself in someone else’s shoes. In other words, they feel no remorse.
2. Egocentric
Such narcissists always want other people to see from their point of view. They want to feed their ego.
3. Paranoia
A malignant narcissist believes that everyone is their enemy without or with little evidence to prove it.
4. Sadistic and Cruel
Such people enjoy inflicting pain whether it is physical or emotional.
5. Manipulative
A malignant narcissist will try to take advantage at some point and turn the situation for their own benefit.
6. Believe to Be Entitled to Special Treatment
Such people strongly believe they should be treated differently from others. They believe they are on the top and people should obey them.
7. Two-Faced People
People like these are superficially charming. They use their charm to get what they want. At times, they even look genuinely sincere. But, do not be fooled.
8. Believe They Are Better Than Anyone Else
Such people feel superior and believe only a few people can actually understand them.
If you are dealing with a malignant narcissist, it is best to stay away from them. Such people can be extremely dangerous and manipulative. So, it is best to stay at a distance and don’t let them get into your head.
