Signs of a Covert Narcissist
9. Emotionally Neglectful
Narcissists lack empathy. This is a common trait across the entire spectrum of NPD and not just of overt narcissism. Both overt and covert narcissists lack the ability to build and maintain emotional bonds with others. This is in large part due to the fact that they put so much time and energy into themselves. Though vulnerable narcissists typically appear kinder and less intolerable than their overt counterparts, they are just as emotionally distant and unresponsive.
Covert narcissists are not big on giving praise or thanks. This is because they are constantly focused on keeping themselves elevated in the eyes of others; handing out compliments would undermine this goal. They also have little to no regard for others’ talents, efforts or abilities. Though the closet narcissist may seem more emotionally accessible than overt narcissists, this is not the case. If in a relationship with a covert narcissist, you may find yourself doing the majority of the emotional lifting.
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