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Narcissists Use Feigned Illness to Manipulate
Journey Joy
July 23, 2022
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Narcissistic abuse is a form of psychological manipulation that can leave victims feeling trapped, isolated, and helpless.
One of the many tactics used by narcissists to control their victims is to feign illness, leading the victim to cater to their every need. This is a way for the narcissist to gain attention and maintain control over their victim.
Photo by Brittany Colette on Unsplash
In this blog post, we will explore how narcissists use illness as a tool for manipulation and control, and what survivors of narcissistic abuse can do to break free from this toxic cycle.
Narcissists are masters of manipulation, and feigning illness is just one of the many ways they maintain control over their victims.
By claiming to be sick, the narcissist can get their victim to do their bidding, catering to their every need, and providing them with the attention they crave.
This can include everything from making their meals to cleaning their living space to giving them constant emotional support.
In many cases, the narcissist may even exaggerate or fabricate their symptoms, making it seem as though they are suffering from a serious illness.
They may insist on constant monitoring or attention, forcing the victim to put their own needs aside to care for the narcissist.
This can lead to a vicious cycle where the victim becomes increasingly enmeshed in the narcissist’s needs, feeling as though they have no choice but to continue catering to their every whim.
What the victim may not realize is that the narcissist’s illness is often nothing more than a ploy for attention and control. Narcissists are known for their insatiable need for attention and admiration, and feigning illness is just another way for them to get what they want.
By playing the role of the sick victim, the narcissist can manipulate their victim into doing whatever they want, all while maintaining the upper hand in the relationship.
So, what can survivors of narcissistic abuse do to break free from this toxic cycle? The first step is to recognize the manipulation for what it is. If you find yourself constantly catering to the needs of a narcissistic partner or family member who claims to be sick, it’s important to take a step back and assess the situation.
Ask yourself if their illness seems genuine, or if it’s just another way for them to control you.
It’s also important to set healthy boundaries in the relationship. This means learning to say “no” to the narcissist when they make unreasonable demands on your time and energy. It may be difficult at first, but standing up for yourself is a crucial step in breaking free from the narcissist’s control.
Finally, seeking the support of a therapist or support group can be a powerful way to heal from the trauma of narcissistic abuse. Talking to others who have gone through similar experiences can be validating and empowering, helping you to break free from the cycle of abuse and reclaim your life.
Thank you for reading :)
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