Narcissism is a personality trait that falls on a spectrum, ranging from healthy self-confidence to a full-blown Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). While narcissism is often affiliated with men, female narcissism has some unique characteristics. Female narcissists tend to display qualities such as excessive vanities, emotional manipulation, competitiveness, and an intense need for validation.
“Covert narcissism can be presented in female narcissists, and sometimes they seem sweet, sacrificial, or even vulnerable while taking control over people through guilt trips, passive-aggressive behaviours, or acting like victims,” our expert, Dr Nikhil Nayar, Psychiatrist, Sharda Hospital - Noida explained. These attitudes often affect relationships, careers, and most of all, mental health.
Indications of Female Narcissism
The first step toward dealing with narcissistic behaviour is acknowledging that it's either in yourself or others. According to Dr Nayar, common signs of such behaviour are as follows:
A need for excessive admiration: constantly seeking praise and approval.
Manipulative tendencies: using blackmailing, guilt trips, and gaslighting.
Lack of empathy: one cannot feel and connect emotionally with others.
Competitive: trying to outshine or pull down others.
Playing the victim: avoiding accountability by shifting blame onto others.
Superficial relationships: using an image and social status for getting along instead of real connection.
Also Read: Are Your Split Nails a Sign of Anxiety? Here Is How Stress Cause Nails To Split
Overcoming Female Narcissism for Better Mental Health
If you realise that you have narcissistic tendencies or if you are experiencing a female narcissist in your life, there are ways to create healthier relationships and improve mental well-being.
1. Self-Reflection and Awareness
Self-awareness is the first step in overcoming narcissism. Through journaling, therapy, and mindfulness practices, one can begin to identify unhealthy patterns and triggers.
2. Developing Genuine Empathy
Actively practising empathy by putting oneself in another person’s shoes can help build deeper, more meaningful connections. Reading books on emotional intelligence and engaging in selfless acts can foster this growth.
3. Setting Healthy Boundaries
For those dealing with a narcissist, setting firm boundaries is crucial. Avoid engaging in manipulative dynamics and prioritise self-care by limiting interactions if necessary.
4. Seeking Professional Help
Therapy, especially Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), could be a helpful intervention in processing narcissistic behaviours. A therapist can guide a client with techniques to promote good self-esteem and interact with others better.
5. Gratitude and Humility
Redirecting attention from self-validation to that of others can change perspective. Each day's exercise of gratitude can lead to a more optimistic perspective on life.
Bottomline
When overcome personally or professionally, the narcissistic behaviour of a female person brings profound mental well-being improvements. Through self and emotional reflection, empathy, and setting healthy boundaries, it is possible to overcome narcissistic behaviours and exhibit deeper emotional well-being.