Have you ever wondered if there’s a quick and easy way to spot a narcissist just by the code words they use? Whether it’s a boss, a co-worker, a family member, or someone you just met, narcissists use specific buzzwords to gaslight you, deceive you, and gain power over you.
If you’re an empathetic, giving, and caring person, you’re exactly the type of person they target. But if you know what to listen for, it could save you from years of confusion, stress, and emotional abuse.
In this article, I’ll share seven catchphrases narcissists use, real-life examples of how they use them, and simple strategies to empower you in any situation.
Catchphrase 1: Guilt-Tripping Accusations
Have you ever been called “selfish” by someone close to you, even after you’ve bent over backwards to help them? This is the first type of catchphrase you’ll hear from a narcissist: guilt-tripping accusations. For example:
- They might call you “materialistic” if you purchase something you want.
- They might label you “high-maintenance” when you ask for something you need.
- If they’ve broken a promise or let you down, they might call you “ungrateful” for expressing your disappointment.
- If you ask them to pay their fair share, they might call you “greedy.”
- After keeping you waiting, and you ask why they’re late, they might call you “too needy.”
These phrases all decode to the same idea: the narcissist wants you to feel guilty. They want you to feel bad, wrong, remorseful, and regretful for wanting, doing, saying, or feeling anything that doesn’t serve their needs. This creates an environment where you feel responsible for their emotions and actions, and morally wrong for caring for yourself.
When you hear this category of catchphrases, understand that the narcissist is trying to punish you by pushing the guilt button. If you’re empathetic or were raised by a narcissist, you must work extra hard to be resilient to this tactic rather than defaulting to feeling guilty. Recognize the intentional manipulation.
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