When we think of narcissists, we often picture people obsessed with themselves, seeking attention and admiration from others.
But what happens when their partners or other people become the center of attention? Do narcissists get jealous like everyone else?
The answer may surprise you.
In this article, we’ll delve into the complex world of narcissism. We will explore whether or not narcissists experience jealousy and the potential effects on their relationships.
Do Narcissists get Jealous Easily?
Narcissists tend to be preoccupied with their self-image and status and often feel threatened by the success or attention given to others. It can lead to envy and resentment, especially if they perceive that their superiority is being challenged.
Additionally, narcissists may display jealousy in ways that are manipulative or coercive. They may use jealousy to control their partners, friends, or colleagues by demanding constant attention and reassurance of their value and importance.
It’s important to note that not all individuals with narcissistic traits will display the same level of jealousy or use it similarly. However, their intense need for admiration and control can create a breeding ground for jealousy and other negative emotions.
Grandiose narcissism vs. Vulnerable narcissism
Whether or not a narcissist gets jealous easily can depend on their narcissism.
Grandiose narcissists tend to have a confident and self-aggrandizing personalities. They may experience less jealousy than vulnerable narcissists, who have more fragile self-esteem and are more sensitive to threats to their relationships.
However, this study found that vulnerable narcissists were more likely to carry out psychological abuse when they experienced jealousy. This may be because they are more likely to lash out at their partner when they feel that their relationship is being threatened due to their fear of losing control or feeling inadequate.
Overall, not all narcissists may experience jealousy in the same way. It can still be a significant factor in their behavior, particularly for those with a more vulnerable form of narcissism.
Why do Narcissists get Jealous?
Why do Narcissists get jealous? Here are five possible reasons why narcissists may experience jealousy:
#1: Insecurity
Despite their grandiose self-image, many narcissists are deeply insecure and fear being exposed as frauds.
They may become jealous when they perceive others as being more talented, attractive, or successful than themselves, which challenges their self-perception of superiority.
#2: Need for control
Narcissists have an intense need for control and may become jealous when they feel they are losing power over a situation or person.
For example, they may become jealous of a partner spending time with friends, as this threatens their sense of control over the relationship.
#3: Lack of empathy
Narcissists cannot empathize with others and may struggle to understand or relate to other people’s emotions. This can make them more prone to jealousy, as they may struggle to see things from the perspective of others.
#4: Desire for attention
Narcissists crave attention and validation from others and may become jealous when someone else is receiving more attention or praise than they are.
For example, a narcissistic colleague may become jealous of a coworker who receives recognition for their work, as this threatens their need for admiration.
#5: Perfectionism
Narcissists can be jealous because of their perfectionist tendencies. They believe they are superior and must always be flawless. W
hen others achieve what they consider perfection, they feel insecure and threatened. They become jealous of those they see as more successful, leading to envy, resentment, and a need to prove their superiority.
How do You Know When a Narcissist is Jealous?
#1: Excessive criticism
When narcissists feel threatened or jealous, they may become overly critical of others. They do this by pointing out flaws or weaknesses to make themselves feel superior.
This behavior can be a way for them to cope with their feelings of inadequacy. It may also be an attempt to diminish the accomplishments of others.
#2: Competitive behavior
Narcissists are highly competitive and may feel threatened by others they perceive as more successful or accomplished. They may try to one-up others, either by boasting about their achievements or by denigrating the accomplishments of others.#3:
#3: Need for attention
When narcissists feel jealous, they may become more demanding of attention and validation from others. They may seek constant reassurance of their importance or divert attention away from someone they feel is threatening their sense of self.
#4: Passive-aggressive behavior
Narcissists may use passive-aggressive behavior to express their jealousy by making snide comments or using sarcasm to belittle someone they feel is a threat.
They may also use non-verbal cues, such as eye-rolling or sighing, to express their disapproval.
#5: They sabotage you
In some cases, a jealous narcissist may try to sabotage the success of others to protect their sense of superiority. It could involve spreading rumors or lies, withholding important information or resources, or actively working to undermine the other person’s efforts.
#6: They are verbally threatening you
Verbal threats can also be a signal that a narcissist is experiencing jealousy.
Narcissists may use threats to intimidate and control others, especially if they feel that someone else’s position or sense of self-worth is being threatened. They may use threats to get their way or punish others they feel have crossed them.
In some cases, a narcissist may also use threats to isolate their partner or prevent them from spending time with others they feel are a threat to the relationship.
These threats can signify that the narcissist is experiencing intense jealousy and may be willing to take aggressive actions to protect their self-image.
What does a Narcissist do When They are Jealous?
When narcissists are jealous, they may display a range of behaviors to protect their self-image and regain control. Here are some common behaviors that narcissists may exhibit when they are experiencing jealousy:
#1: Criticizing and belittling others:
A narcissist may criticize or belittle the person they are jealous of to feel superior and boost their self-esteem.
#2: Gaslighting
A narcissist may use gaslighting tactics to manipulate the other person. Make them doubt their perception of reality. It can help the narcissist to gain control and make the other person feel insecure.
#3: Withholding affection
A narcissist may withhold affection and attention from the person they are jealous of to punish them and regain control of the relationship.
#4: Engaging in affairs or flirtations
A narcissist may seek attention and validation from others to make the person they are jealous of feel threatened and boost their ego.
#5: Becoming aggressive or violent
In extreme cases, a narcissist may become aggressive or violent towards the person they are jealous of. Particularly if they feel their sense of self-worth is being threatened.
Narcissists’ response to jealousy is often driven by their need for control, admiration, and attention. They may go to great lengths to protect their self-image and ensure they remain in a position of power and dominance.
Why is the Narcissist Making Me Jealous?
If you are in a relationship with a narcissist, you may find that they intentionally make you jealous. It can be a way for them to manipulate and control you by enjoying the attention and admiration they receive from you when you become jealous.
They may also use your jealousy to keep you on edge and exert power over you.
If you have accomplishments or relationships with others that threaten the narcissist, they may become jealous. This jealousy is an attempt to maintain their control and dominance in the relationship.
It’s crucial to recognize the warning signs of a manipulative and controlling partner and to set boundaries to protect yourself from their toxic behavior.
Different reasons why a narcissist makes you jealous
According to a study at the University of Alabama, there are different reasons why narcissists make their partners feel jealous.
Grandiose narcissists do it to gain more power and control over their partners. Vulnerable narcissists may feel jealous for revenge, self-esteem, testing the relationship, or seeking reassurance
Narcissists’ actions are often emotional and can easily trigger jealousy to achieve their goals. If you are in a relationship with a narcissist, it’s important to understand their motivations and take steps to protect yourself.
Final Thoughts
If you are in a relationship with a narcissist, it is important to understand that jealousy is not a reflection of your worth or actions.
Narcissists can become jealous when they feel threatened or their need for admiration is not met.
They may feel envy towards others’ possessions, achievements, or relationships, and strive to obtain them for themselves
Don’t blame yourself for their behavior. It is important to set boundaries, communicate assertively, and prioritize their own well-being when dealing with narcissistic individuals.
