Narcissists use various techniques to manipulate and control the people around them. Often these techniques start out as defense mechanisms for the child and then evolve into unhealthy, toxic, and even dangerous behavior as the child becomes an adult.

A common technique used by narcissists is known as projection. Projection can also occur outside of narcissism, but with the narcissist, it is more prevalent. Therapists see projection as a defense mechanism. It is the ability to take anything we don’t like internally and project or place it on someone else. In other words, it allows the individual to avoid responsibility for the situation by laying the blame or the responsibility at the feet of someone else.

By externalizing the problem, the narcissist sees his or herself as free from blame. It also makes the situation easier to deal with as the problem now becomes someone else’s responsibility.

Why Narcissists Use Projection

In their behavior and outward expression, a narcissist is often seen to be confident, outgoing, and self-assured. They are grandiose and extravagant and seem to enjoy being the center of attention and the focus of admiration.

However, deep inside, the narcissist is full of self-doubt and lacks a healthy sense of self-esteem. When he or she begins to feel these doubts, it is easier to project these insecurities onto someone else, sidestepping the reality of being a narcissist. It would be impossible for the narcissist to see his or her own insecurities. This is too much at odds with the mental image and story they have created for themselves.

What Narcissist Projection Looks Like

Living with or being around a narcissist who uses projection is often a very confusing experience. These individuals are likely to make accusations or blame you for things that are not happening. For example, if a narcissist is very jealous of a relationship you have with a friend or family member, he or she may accuse you of being jealous of their friendship with someone.

In addition, the narcissist may engage in bad behavior, such as ghosting you or going out of their way to start a verbal argument. They then blame you for not returning their calls or tests, standing them up on a date, or being unwilling to talk rationally and calmly.

It is also not uncommon for a narcissist to blame someone else for needing to be the center of attention or trying to be “in control” of the relationship. This is the narcissist projecting their insecurities onto you. This is confusing and impossible to address, as the narcissist then accuses you of being defensive, angry, and out of control.

Narcissistic projection is the first step in moving into gaslighting. With gaslighting, the narcissist then moves to recreate your memories of the event, causing you to doubt the experience and making you assume the blame, responsibility, or consequences they are trying to externalize.

Tips To Manage Narcissistic Projection

There are several techniques to protect yourself from the impact of projection. The first and most important is to recognize when it is occurring and to understand it is their defense mechanism, not anything you can fix or make easier for the narcissist. In fact, the more you attempt this, the more likely the narcissist is to continue with the projection and move to gaslighting.

Other techniques to protect yourself from this behavior include:

• State the truth – when the narcissist tells you how you feel, recognize that is their emotion or belief and not yours. Stating this in a neutral way can be helpful. This can look like “I am not arguing” or “I am not angry.” Then stop and leave the conversation. Do not continue to engage, as this supports the narcissist.
• Understand the issue – projection provides a way for the partner to see into  the mind of the narcissist. This can be helpful in recognizing the issue, but it does not mean you need to take responsibility or accept the blame. It is just insight that may be beneficial in setting boundaries and limiting conversations.
• Talk to a therapist – talking to a therapist or counselor familiar with narcissistic behaviors is very helpful. These professionals can help unpack the situation and create self-care techniques to help cope with the projection.
• End conversations – boundaries are always important when dealing with a narcissist. Set clear boundaries regarding what is allowed and not allowed in conversations, and end the interaction if a boundary is crossed.
• Finally, getting help to deal with any relationship issues, including how to evaluate toxic relationships, will be critical for your mental health and well-being.

References:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/toxic-relationships/201903/how-confront-narcissists-lethal-weapon-projection
https://psychcentral.com/blog/psychology-self/2017/09/narcissistic-projection
https://www.carlacorelli.com/narcissistic-abuse-recovery/narcissistic-projection/
https://medium.com/@OwnYourReality/projection-the-narcissists-weapon-that-can-be-used-against-them-7ebb63848998

Do you recognize the signs of narcissistic projection? Does someone you know do this? How can you help yourself out of these situations? What support might you need? Be sure to share your thoughts and questions using the comment section below so we can all learn from and help each other…

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