In this post, you’re going to learn all about how a narcissist reacts to being blocked.
- What Is the Narcissist?
- Key Characteristics of a Narcissist
- How Does a Narcissist React to Being Blocked?
- Why Being Blocked Is Difficult for a Narcissist?
- Is It Advisable to Block a Narcissist?
- Coping Strategies for Dealing with a Narcissist’s Reaction
- Narcissism vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
- Conclusion
What Is the Narcissist?
A narcissist is someone who has an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
Individuals with narcissistic traits often have an excessive preoccupation with their own achievements and abilities, and they may display a grandiose sense of entitlement.
They often seek constant validation and admiration from others and have difficulty accepting criticism or acknowledging the needs and feelings of those around them.
Narcissists may also exploit others for their own gain and lack genuine empathy or compassion.
Key Characteristics of a Narcissist
1. Grandiosity: A pervasive sense of superiority and an exaggerated belief in one’s own importance or abilities. Narcissists often have an inflated self-image and believe they are unique or special individuals.
2. Need for admiration: Narcissists constantly seek attention, validation, and admiration from others. They have an insatiable desire to be praised and recognized for their achievements, even if they exaggerate or fabricate them.
3. Lack of empathy: Narcissists often struggle to understand or relate to the emotions and experiences of others. They may disregard or dismiss the feelings and needs of others, focusing solely on their own desires and well-being.
4. Sense of entitlement: Narcissists believe they deserve special treatment and that others should fulfill their wants and needs without question. They may exploit or manipulate others to satisfy their own desires, viewing themselves as deserving of preferential treatment.
5. Exploitative behavior: Narcissists frequently exploit others for personal gain or to maintain control. They may take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities, manipulate them for their own benefit, or disregard the boundaries and rights of others.
6. Envious and competitive: Narcissists often feel envious of others and are driven by a constant need to outperform or overshadow those around them. They struggle with acknowledging others’ accomplishments and may respond with resentment or hostility.
7. Arrogance and grandiose fantasies: Narcissists tend to have an exaggerated sense of their own abilities and achievements. They may fantasize about unlimited success, power, beauty, or ideal love and believe they are destined for greatness.
8. Fragile self-esteem: Despite their apparent confidence, narcissists often have a fragile sense of self-esteem. They may react strongly to criticism or perceived rejection, experiencing intense shame or anger when their ego is threatened.
9. Difficulty with intimate relationships: Narcissists may have difficulties establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships. Their self-centeredness, lack of empathy, and inability to prioritize others can lead to issues with emotional intimacy and connection.
It’s important to note that these characteristics may exist on a spectrum, and not every individual with narcissistic traits will exhibit all of them.
Related: Top 10 Narcissistic Relationship Patterns
How Does a Narcissist React to Being Blocked?
1. Anger and Frustration
Narcissists often have a fragile self-esteem and a grandiose sense of self-importance.
Being blocked can threaten their ego and trigger intense anger and frustration.
They may lash out verbally or even physically if they feel cornered or humiliated.
2. Attempts to Regain Control
Narcissists thrive on power and control over others.
Being blocked disrupts this control, leading them to seek ways to regain it.
They may try various manipulative tactics such as love bombing (overwhelming with affection), gaslighting (manipulating your perception of reality), or guilt-tripping to make you unblock them.
3. Retaliation or Revenge
Narcissists often struggle with empathy and may feel a strong sense of entitlement.
When they perceive being blocked as an attack or rejection, they may retaliate or seek revenge.
This could involve spreading rumors, engaging in character assassination, or even initiating legal action.
Related: How To Get Revenge On A Narcissist? (In Relationships & At Work)
4. Hoovering
Narcissists may attempt to “hoover” or draw you back into their web of manipulation and abuse.
They might use various strategies like reaching out through different channels, creating new accounts, or using mutual acquaintances to contact you.
Their aim is to regain control and ensure their needs are met.
5. Playing the Victim
Some narcissists employ a victim mentality to elicit sympathy or guilt from others.
They may portray themselves as the ones who have been wronged, emphasizing their emotional pain and suffering.
By playing the victim, they hope to manipulate your emotions and regain their desired position of superiority.
Related: Am I Being Gaslighted Quiz
6. Multiple Attempts at Contact
Being blocked might intensify the narcissist’s desire for attention and validation.
The narcissist may attempt to reach out to you repeatedly via phone calls, text messages, or voicemails.
These attempts can be an expression of their desperation to regain control over the situation.
7. Denial and Minimization
In some cases, upon being blocked, a narcissist may deny or downplay the significance of the situation.
They may dismiss the blocking as inconsequential or try to convince themselves that it was a mistake or a misunderstanding.
This defense mechanism helps protect their fragile self-image from feeling wounded.
Related: Why Do Narcissists Ignore You? Top 7 Reasons
8. Public Shaming and Smear Campaigns
To salvage their own image or to seek vengeance, narcissists might resort to public shaming and smear campaigns.
They may use social media platforms or other avenues to spread false information about you or damage your reputation.
This tactic aims to discredit you and regain control over the narrative.
9. Seeking Validation Elsewhere
Narcissists often rely on external validation to feed their inflated self-image.
When blocked by one person, they may seek validation elsewhere, whether from other friends, acquaintances, or new sources of admiration and attention.
Their goal is to maintain their sense of superiority and importance.
10. Disengagement or Move-on
While less common, some narcissists may choose to disengage and move on when they are blocked.
This reaction generally occurs when they find alternative sources of validation or when they believe there are better opportunities for maintaining control and power over other individuals.
Related: 21 Stages of a Narcissist Relationship (+FREE Breakup Recovery Worksheets)
Why Being Blocked Is Difficult for a Narcissist?
Being blocked can be particularly challenging for a narcissist due to several reasons:
1. Loss of control
Narcissists thrive on having control and power over others.
When they are blocked, they lose the ability to influence or manipulate the person who blocked them.
This loss of control can be distressing and frustrating for them.
2. Ego bruising
Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and need constant admiration.
Being blocked can be seen as a personal rejection and a blow to their ego.
It contradicts their belief that they are superior, special, or entitled to special treatment.
Related: Narcissist Word Salad: 12 Strategies & Examples
3. Narcissistic supply deprivation
Narcissists rely on attention (positive or negative) from others to validate their self-worth.
Being blocked denies them this supply, and they may experience a sense of emptiness or lack of validation in their lives.
4. Fear of abandonment
Deep down, narcissists often have a fear of being abandoned or rejected by others.
Being blocked reinforces these fears and can amplify their insecurities, leading to feelings of anxiety, worthlessness, or anger.
5. Limited avenues for manipulation
Blocking limits the narcissist’s ability to exert control, manipulate, or exploit the person who blocked them.
They may feel powerless and frustrated when their usual tactics fail to work.
It is important to note that these challenges for a narcissist do not justify their behavior or suggest that blocking should be avoided.
Related: Narcissist Blame Shifting: Top 5 Examples and How to Deal With It
Is It Advisable to Block a Narcissist?
Each situation is unique, and it’s important to consider your safety, mental well-being, and boundaries when deciding whether to block someone, especially if you suspect they may have narcissistic traits.
If you feel threatened or manipulated, setting clear boundaries and reducing contact may be necessary for your own emotional protection.
Seeking support from trusted friends, family, or professionals can help you navigate these decisions.
Coping Strategies for Dealing with a Narcissist’s Reaction
Coping with a narcissist’s reaction to being blocked can be challenging and emotionally draining. Here are some coping strategies that may help you navigate this situation:
#1. Maintain no contact or limited contact
Depending on the circumstances, implementing a “No Contact” rule may be the best approach.
This means completely cutting off all communication and removing the narcissist from your life.
However, if complete separation is not possible or feasible, consider implementing minimal or limited contact.
Only engage when necessary and keep interactions strictly focused on practical matters.
#2. Set clear boundaries
Establishing boundaries is crucial when dealing with a narcissist.
1. Define your boundaries: Reflect on what behaviors or actions from the narcissist are unacceptable to you. Clearly identify the boundaries you want to establish in your interactions with them. Be specific and decisive about what you will and will not tolerate.
2. Communicate assertively: Use “I” statements to express your needs and boundaries without accusing or attacking the narcissist. Be direct, firm, and consistent in your communication. Avoid getting drawn into arguments or justifying your boundaries excessively.
3. Be prepared for resistance: Narcissists may resist or disregard your boundaries. They may attempt to manipulate or gaslight you to gain control. Stay firm and consistent in upholding your boundaries, even in the face of their resistance or attempts to undermine them.
4. Set consequences and follow through: Clearly communicate the consequences if the narcissist crosses your boundaries. It could involve limiting contact, ending a conversation, or taking a break from the relationship. Follow through with the consequences when necessary to reinforce the importance of your boundaries.
Remember, setting boundaries is about protecting your well-being and asserting your rights.
It may not change the behavior of the narcissist, but it can empower you and create a healthier dynamic for yourself.
Related: How To Set Boundaries With A Narcissist?
#3. Practice assertive communication
When you need to interact with a narcissist, use assertive communication techniques.
1. Self-awareness: Understand your triggers, emotional reactions, and patterns of interaction when dealing with a narcissist. Recognize any vulnerabilities or areas where you can improve your assertiveness.
2. Role-play: Consider role-playing with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist, where they portray the narcissist and you practice setting boundaries, expressing your needs, and maintaining your emotional resilience. This can help you gain confidence and develop effective strategies.
5. Set realistic expectations: It’s important to acknowledge that narcissists may not change their behavior, even if you effectively communicate your boundaries. The goal of practice is to focus on your own growth and ability to assert yourself, rather than expecting the narcissist to respond positively.
Related: Assertive Anger: What It Is & How to Practice It
#4. Challenge cognitive distortions
Narcissists often manipulate others through gaslighting, where they distort reality to make you question your own sanity or perception.
1. Identify the distortion: Recognize the specific cognitive distortion(s) being used by the narcissist, such as all-or-nothing thinking, personalization, or blaming others. Becoming aware of these patterns can help you detach from their influence.
2. Seek objective evidence: Look for objective evidence that contradicts the narcissist’s distorted beliefs or claims. This could involve seeking input from trustworthy sources, fact-checking information, or reviewing past events to gain a balanced perspective.
3. Practice critical thinking: Develop your critical thinking skills to evaluate the validity of the narcissist’s statements. Question their assumptions, consider alternative explanations, and assess the logical consistency of their arguments. This can help you see through the distortions and maintain a more balanced viewpoint.
4. Reframe and reattribute: When the narcissist makes negative or undermining comments, reframe them in a more objective light. Instead of internalizing their criticism, consider alternative explanations for their behavior, such as their own insecurities or need for control.
Related: What Causes Cognitive Distortions? (+Top 10 Common Cognitive Distortions & How To Challenge Them)
#5. Seek support
Dealing with a narcissist can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Talk to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist who can provide emotional validation, guidance, and help you process your feelings.
Support groups for individuals who have encountered narcissistic individuals can also be beneficial.
#6. Focus on self-care
Engage in activities that promote your well-being and help you relax.
This could include exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Prioritizing self-care will help you maintain your emotional resilience and reduce stress.
Related: 35 Self Care Saturday Ideas To Try This Weekend
#7. Manage your emotions
Being involved with a narcissist can evoke intense emotions such as anger, frustration, sadness, or guilt.
It’s essential to acknowledge and validate these emotions while finding healthy ways to manage them.
Journaling, talking to a therapist, or practicing relaxation techniques can help you process and release these emotions.
#8. Educate yourself
Learning more about narcissism can provide valuable insight into the disorder and its impact on relationships.
Understanding their patterns of behavior and manipulation tactics can help you detach emotionally and respond in healthier ways.
Related: Best 10 Books On Gaslighting
#9. Avoid the blame game
It’s common for narcissists to shift blame onto others and engage in manipulative tactics.
Remind yourself that their behavior is a reflection of their issues and not a result of anything you’ve done wrong.
Avoid internalizing their criticisms or taking responsibility for their actions.
#10. Practice self-empowerment
Reclaiming your personal power is crucial when dealing with a narcissist.
Focus on your strengths, build your self-esteem, and cultivate a positive self-image.
Engage in activities that promote personal growth and remind yourself of your worth and value outside of the narcissist’s perception.
Remember, these coping strategies are intended as general suggestions and should be tailored to your specific situation.
If you are in an abusive or dangerous relationship, seek professional help or contact the appropriate authorities to ensure your safety.
Related: How To Turn The Tables On A Narcissist?
Narcissism vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) are related concepts but have distinct differences.
Understanding these differences can help in gaining a better understanding of these conditions:
Narcissism is a personality trait that exists on a spectrum. It refers to having an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for admiration and attention, and a lack of empathy towards others.
While some level of narcissism is common in the general population, it becomes problematic when it significantly impairs one’s functioning and relationships.
NPD is a specific diagnostic category in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
It is characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.
Individuals with NPD often have an exaggerated sense of self-importance, fantasize about unlimited success, power, brilliance, or beauty, and believe they are special and unique.
Here are some key distinctions between the two:
1. Intensity and Persistence
While narcissism exists on a spectrum, individuals with NPD display persistent and extreme patterns of narcissistic traits that significantly impact their lives and relationships.
These traits are not only evident in social situations but also across various areas of life.
2. Impairment and Distress
NPD causes significant impairment and distress in an individual’s life.
It often leads to difficulties maintaining healthy relationships, work-related issues, and problems functioning effectively in society.
In contrast, individuals who simply exhibit narcissistic traits may experience some challenges, but their overall functioning is not significantly impaired.
Related: How To Communicate With A Narcissist?
3. Diagnosis
Narcissistic Personality Disorder requires a formal diagnosis from a mental health professional based on specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5.
It involves a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and overall functioning.
On the other hand, narcissism itself is a descriptive term used to reflect certain personality characteristics.
4. Treatment
While individuals with narcissistic traits may benefit from therapy, those with NPD often require specialized treatment approaches.
Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy, can be helpful in addressing the underlying issues and assisting individuals with NPD in developing healthier coping strategies, improving self-awareness, and fostering empathy.
It is crucial to differentiate between everyday narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder, as the latter can have significant implications for an individual’s well-being and functioning.
Related: Top 10 Signs You’re Healing From Narcissistic Abuse
Conclusion
In dealing with a narcissist’s reaction to being blocked, it is essential to prioritize your own well-being and safety.
Establishing and maintaining clear boundaries is crucial.
Seek support from trusted friends, family, or professionals experienced in dealing with narcissistic personalities. They can help you navigate through the challenges and help you heal from any emotional harm.
