After learning about narcissism, it may seem like narcissists are everywhere. Some coworkers show warning signs. You see narcissistic behavior in the media and news. Even some of your family and friends show signs.
Why does it seem like narcissists are everywhere? Here are some reasons…
You Are A Narcissism Magnet
Some people attract narcissists. Especially those raised by narcissistic parents.
Narcissists are clearly takers. With this in mind, it’s no surprise what trait they look for in others: giving.
Narcissists focus on empathetic giving. They’re the easiest people to take from. And narcissists can tell giving from a distance.
So, if you’re putting others before yourself, you’re unfortunately a narcissist’s dream. They’re likely to target you. This means that narcissists are everywhere in your world.
Related : Why Didn’t You Leave The Narcissist?
If you fall into this category, it’s helpful to learn to be more assertive. Narcissists dislike assertive people because they’re more vocal about asserting their needs and desires. They also avoid crossing boundaries. Click here to learn how to be more assertive after a narcissistic relationship.
Narcissists Are Overrepresented
As you probably know, narcissists need a lot of attention. Of all people, they’re the most proactive in seeking new friends and lovers. Because of their difficult nature, they often burn through relationships faster than a fire can catch fire.
With this in mind, it makes sense that many people see more than their share of narcissists. Because narcissists are the ones looking for someone to cling to. They’re the ones who destroy relationships and need to start over.
People with low narcissistic personality traits are more comfortable spending time alone. As a result, they’re less likely to seek out new relationships. As a result, you’ll encounter fewer of these people, and more of the narcissistic types.
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Narcissists are drawn to certain professions, hobbies, and interests. So, if you’re involved in one of these, you may encounter more narcissists.
For example, some narcissists are drawn to the military, due to its hierarchical nature, status, and power. Therefore, you may encounter many narcissists if you serve in the military.
Narcissists are also drawn to acting, music, and politics, where they can hog the limelight and gain fame. So, if you’re involved in these fields, you may encounter more narcissists.
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Less than 1% of the population is diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. This suggests it’s rare. But this doesn’t tell the whole story.
Most narcissists go undiagnosed. This isn’t surprising, given the general lack of awareness about the disorder. Therefore, people cannot seek a diagnosis for something they know nothing about.
Furthermore, narcissists are reluctant to admit they have any “disorder” due to their delusions of superiority. So, even if they suspect they have Narcissistic Personality Disorder, they are unlikely to seek a diagnosis because they don’t want to hear the truth.
Related : Why Narcissists Hate Their Partners
One study found that 6.2% of the population qualifies as having Narcissistic Personality Disorder. That’s 1 in 15 people. When you look at it from this perspective, it’s not that rare.
If you work in a company of 45 people, statistically, there will be 3 people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. These people are likely to cause the most drama and make their presence felt.
Furthermore, some people have obvious narcissistic traits without being classified as having the full-blown disorder. So, there may be more people with narcissism than with Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
You Are Educated About Narcissism
Once you recognize narcissism and its warning signs, you’ll become more adept at spotting narcissists. While others are oblivious to the mind games and manipulations going on around them, you aren’t.
So, the poor victim everyone feels sorry for isn’t a victim in your educated eyes. The local shopkeeper with a strange sense of humor isn’t just “weird.”
The more you learn about narcissists, the more you’ll be able to spot them. Which can make the world seem full of narcissists. But that’s better than the alternative: being completely oblivious, easy prey, waiting to be targeted.
Final Thoughts
It can be sad to think that the world is full of narcissists. But that’s not true.
Although there are many narcissists out there, they’re still a minority. This means that the majority of people have healthy levels of empathy, even if it doesn’t always seem that way!
Related : Why Narcissists Change Their Name
Recognizing narcissism is a double-edged sword. Once you know it, you see it everywhere. But on the other hand, you’re aware and prepared. Which is what I personally prefer.
With this knowledge, you can choose your friends and relationships better. Identify toxic environments. Quickly learn who to trust and who not to.
