Narcissists: Masters of Overcompensation

Narcissists often mask deep-seated insecurities and self-doubt through overcompensation, portraying a facade of superiority to hide their inner vulnerabilities. Their inflated egos, fueled by the need to feel superior, manifest in manipulative and controlling behaviors that eventually alienate those around them. This self-protective mechanism leads to aggressive reactions to criticism, as it threatens their fragile self-image.

Victims of narcissists are frequently manipulated and made to feel inferior, often through induced guilt, serving as a source of validation or "narcissistic supply." Tragically, these defensive barriers prevent narcissists from experiencing personal growth or genuine connections, keeping them locked in a cycle of denial and shallow self-worth, which ultimately results in higher emotional costs for both them and those they victimize.