Narcissistic personality disorder is often associated with grandiose individuals who crave constant admiration and attention. However, a new study has found that these individuals are more likely to experience exclusion and ostracism due to their behavior.
According to Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a licensed clinical psychologist, narcissists rely on charm and manipulation to thrive. This can lead to disruptive behaviors in social settings, such as aggression or arrogance, which increase the likelihood of others distancing themselves.
The study found that grandiose narcissists are more likely to perceive exclusion even when it’s not happening due to their high sensitivity to social status and ambiguous cues. When they overreact to perceived slights, friends and family members may start avoiding them out of concern for their behavior.
To navigate relationships with narcissists, Durvasula recommends disengagement – intentionally withdrawing contact or interactions. However, this can create a destructive cycle where the narcissist views themselves as victims, intensifying their antagonistic behaviors.
The study also found that individuals who exhibit narcissistic rivalry are more likely to be ostracized than those with high levels of narcissistic admiration. Narcissists may use social perceptiveness to succeed in leadership and business, but only when it benefits them. Outside of this context, they often blame others for their situation.
To improve, narcissists need consistent intervention through therapy that addresses underlying psychological factors such as developmental traumas, childhood environment, attachment issues, and any other psychological factors that may have shaped their personality.
When dealing with a narcissist in a family or friend circle, Durvasula suggests empathic disengagement – remaining pleasant and polite without overperforming to satisfy them. In work settings, team members may hesitate to confront a narcissistic colleague due to fear of reaction, ultimately picking up their share of the work instead.
Ultimately, whether to cut ties with a narcissist is a personal decision that depends on individual circumstances.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/20/health/narcissism-social-exclusion-rejection-wellness/index.html