How Do Narcissists React to Problems in a Relationship?

Number 3: Narcissists become defensive.

Narcissists tend to become defensive when faced with problems in their relationships. They may try to blame the other person for the problem or even deny that there is a problem at all. Narcissists will also most likely try to shift the focus of the argument away from their behavior and onto something entirely different. This is because narcissists do not like to admit that anything is wrong with them or their behavior. They also don’t want other people to tell them what to do or how to behave. So, when someone tells them what bothers them about their behavior, it’s easy for them to become upset or angry with this person. This behavior can cause their relationship to deteriorate even further.

Number four: Narcissists tend to see it as a personal attack.

Narcissists may have difficulty dealing with their feelings and emotions, so it can feel like a personal attack when something goes wrong in their relationship. They’ll likely become defensive and accusatory, which will only worsen things. Narcissists also have difficulty admitting when they are at fault or apologizing for their actions, which causes issues in relationships. Narcissists believe that they are never wrong. They do not make mistakes because they feel they are perfect and above reproach. Narcissists are very sensitive when someone criticizes them or questions their decisions. They take criticism personally because it threatens their inflated view of themselves as perfect individuals who can do no wrong.

Number five: Narcissists may react with anger and lash out at their partners.

Narcissists are more likely to react with anger and lash out at their partners when faced with relationship problems. Instead of working through the issue calmly and rationally, they have very high standards and expect the people around them to meet them too. Narcissistic rage is a reaction to feeling frightened or to something that will make them look bad in the eyes of others. Narcissists may feel like they’re being put down or made to look inferior when someone else has done something that makes them feel like a failure in comparison. Narcissists are known for their tendency to be selfish and egotistical, but they also have difficulty tolerating any conflict in their relationships. If you’re dating a narcissist and your partner seems angry or defensive when you bring up an issue, it’s important to remember that these reactions are not about you. They’re about how uncomfortable your partner feels when things aren’t going his or her way.