Explaining Covert Narcissistic Abuse When They Can't Relate
Psychology Today | 21.02.2026 05:20
Explaining covert narcissistic abuse to someone who has never experienced it can be especially difficult, even if they mean well and are trying to help. Much of what is available online oversimplifies covert narcissism or groups behavioral patterns of both overt and covert narcissism into a single concept. Covert narcissism shows up distinctly from the loud and brash behavior most people associate with narcissists. Its patterns are often subtle and can be mistaken for shyness or humility. Yet, their motivations remain the same as those of grandiose narcissists, which include manipulation, a need for control, a sense of entitlement, and a lack of genuine emotional empathy.
