Have you ever met someone who seems to be constantly preoccupied with their appearance?
Do they desire attention and admiration at every turn?
If so, you may have encountered a somatic narcissist.
But what exactly is somatic narcissism, and how does it differ from other types?
This article lists 10 indicators that you are interacting with a somatic narcissist.
What is Somatic Narcissism?
Somatic narcissism is a form of narcissism that is characterized by an excessive interest in or preoccupation with the body and physical appearance.
People with this type of narcissism tend to be highly concerned with their looks and may spend much time and money on grooming, exercise, and other activities that enhance their physical appearance.
They may also be obsessed with youthful beauty and go to great lengths to maintain a youthful appearance, such as by getting plastic surgery or using anti-aging products.
Some people with somatic narcissism may also have an exaggerated sense of their attractiveness or sexual appeal. They may engage in promiscuous or risky behaviors to satisfy their need for attention and validation.
Signs of a somatic narcissist to look out for
If you suspect you are dealing with a somatic narcissist, watch out for these red flags.
Here are 10 indicators that someone may be a somatic narcissist:
#1: Exploitation of physical attractiveness and sexuality
It is common for people with somatic narcissism to use their attractiveness and sexual appeal to control and exploit others.
This type of behavior is often driven by a need to feel powerful and in control, and the individual may not be concerned with the feelings or well-being of those they are exploiting.
#2: Obsession with physical appearance
Another hallmark of somatic narcissism is an excessive focus on physical appearance and attractiveness.
This can manifest in various ways, such as wearing revealing or attention-seeking clothing or constantly posting selfies on social media.
Somatic narcissists may work hard to maintain and improve their appearance, like going to the gym frequently or getting plastic surgery. They may also be very critical of their appearance. They may be overly concerned with how others perceive them.
#3: They engage in body shaming
Somatic narcissists often rely on criticizing the appearance of others to feel superior. They may put down individuals they consider physically inferior or unattractive to solidify their sense of superiority. This criticism can take the form of making jokes about people who are overweight, older, or who do not meet their standards of physical attractiveness.
4: They find criticism difficult
Anybody can find it tough to take criticism, but narcissistic people may find it more challenging. Criticism puts their feeling of grandeur and self-importance in jeopardy, which is why they do this. To defend their egos and uphold their superiority complexes, narcissists may turn hostile or aggressive in response to criticism.
In the case of somatic narcissists, criticism of their physical appearance or behavior may be particularly challenging for them to accept because it strikes at the center of their sense of self and their primary source of self-esteem. To protect their flimsy sense of self-worth, they may become angry, combative, or even violent in response to criticism.
5: Using sex to increase self-esteem
Somatic narcissists may exploit their physical allure, sexual aptitude, and seductive demeanor to control and manipulate their partners. They may look for partners they feel will increase their status or beauty, and they may use sex to control and manipulate their partners.
To feel strong and in charge, some somatic narcissists may indulge in dangerous or promiscuous sexual conduct. They may also use sex to punish their partners if they fall short of the narcissist’s standards or to get the attention and admiration of others.
#6: Prioritizing their own needs and desires over others
Somatic narcissists may prioritize their own needs and desires over those of their partner, ignoring their partner’s or family member’s feelings and concerns.
This lack of empathy can damage the relationship and lead to feelings of neglect and disrespect.
#7: A strong desire for attention and admiration
One of the critical traits of somatic narcissism is an intense desire for attention and admiration. Somatic narcissists may seek out admiration and praise for their appearance. They may become upset or upset if they do not receive the attention they feel they deserve.
This need for attention can manifest in various ways, such as seeking out social media followers or constantly seeking validation from others.
#8: A need to be the center of attention
Somatic narcissists often desire to be the center of attention and may go to great lengths to ensure they are noticed and admired.
They may seek out opportunities to be in the spotlight or to be the focus of attention and may become upset or upset if they are not the center of attention.
#9: Lack of empathy and self-absorption
Somatic narcissists may also have a lack of empathy for others. They may prioritize their own needs and desires over those of others. They may be self-absorbed and may have difficulty considering the perspectives or feelings of others.
This lack of empathy can cause conflicts and difficulties in relationships, as others may feel that their needs and feelings are not considered.
#10: They use gaslighting tactics
Gaslighting is a tactic used by manipulators to make their victim doubt their own perceptions and memories.
Somatic narcissists may use gaslighting to control and manipulate their partner, causing confusion and uncertainty.
The Impact of Somatic Narcissism on Relationships
Somatic narcissism can significantly impact relationships, as the preoccupation with physical appearance and the need for attention and admiration can become a priority over the needs and feelings of others.
In romantic relationships, somatic narcissists may prioritize their appearance and desires over their partner, leading to conflicts and difficulties. They may also be prone to manipulation and control to get what they want. These behaviors can damage the relationship and lead to feelings of neglect and disrespect for the partner.
In familial relationships, somatic narcissists may also prioritize their own appearance and desires over the needs of their family. This can cause conflicts and difficulties within the family dynamic, as other family members may feel that their own needs and feelings are not being considered.
In platonic relationships, somatic narcissism can also lead to conflicts and difficulties. Somatic narcissists may prioritize their own appearance and desires over those of their friends, leading to feelings of neglect and disrespect. They may also be prone to seeking attention and admiration from their friends, which can become draining for those around them.
Overall, somatic narcissism can lead to conflicts and difficulties in relationships due to focusing on physical appearance and prioritizing one’s own needs and desires over those of others.
Differences Between Somatic Narcissists and Other Types of Narcissists
Narcissists come in all shapes and sizes. According to some experts, they can be classified into three main categories: cerebral, sexual, and somatic.
Cerebral Narcissists:
The Intellectuals These narcissists get their sense of superiority from their intellect and feel superior to others due to their intelligence.
Sexual Narcissists: The Players
Sexual narcissists gain their sense of entitlement through sexual situations. They may enjoy seducing as many people as possible and showing off their sexual attractiveness to others.
Somatic Narcissists: The Physical Ones
Somatic narcissists feel more worthy than others due to their physical appearance. They may show off their bodies or the number of people who look at them to get a sense of importance and seek approval in these areas.
It’s important to note that these are not clinical terms and are not backed up by peer-reviewed research. A narcissist may exhibit traits from multiple categories, with one type often predominant.
Somatic vs. Sexual Narcissists
Both somatic and sexual narcissists express their narcissism through their physicality. Still, somatic narcissists don’t necessarily need the expression to be sexually charged. While sexual narcissists may be obsessed with seducing others, somatic narcissists may feel a sense of sexual entitlement and treat their partners like objects to stroke their egos.
Somatic vs. Cerebral Narcissists
Cerebral narcissists gain their narcissistic supply from feeling more competent than others and like to brag about their intelligence. In contrast, somatic narcissists rely on their physical bodies to handle essentials and seek approval in these areas.
Understanding the different types of narcissists can help you identify the specific traits and behaviors you may be dealing with in your own life. Remember, the most important thing is to take care of yourself and seek help if you are in a toxic relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions:
I also provide the answer to 2 frequently asked questions below:
Can a somatic narcissist be faithful?
A somatic narcissist can be faithful. Still, it may be more difficult due to their need for attention and admiration. Somatic narcissists may be more prone to infidelity if they feel their needs are not being met in the relationship or they are not getting the attention and admiration they desire.
Those in a relationship with a somatic narcissist must set boundaries and communicate clearly. The somatic narcissist needs to be aware of their own needs and how they may impact the relationship.
What is the difference between cerebral and somatic narcissists?
Cerebral narcissists are characterized by an excessive focus on their intelligence and achievements. In contrast, somatic narcissists are characterized by an extreme focus on their physical appearance and attractiveness. Both narcissists may be self-absorbed and prioritize their needs and desires over those of others.
Still, cerebral narcissists may be more concerned with their mental abilities and accomplishments. In contrast, somatic narcissists may be more concerned with their physical appearance and attractiveness.
Final Thoughts
If you are in contact with a somatic narcissist, avoid displaying emotional responses to their behavior, as they may feed off drama. Seek counseling to understand what led you into a relationship with a narcissist, particularly if you have a history of trauma.
Be wary of anyone whose life revolves around their appearance, judges others based on their appearance, or exhibits other signs of narcissism. It is unlikely that a somatic narcissist will change their ways, so if you believe you are in a relationship with one, seek therapy and consider ending the relationship.
