Narcissists are extremely self-focused individuals, and the scenario doesn’t change much when they become parents.
A narcissistic parent would be oblivious to their child’s struggles and feelings. They won’t understand the emotional state of their kids, and often have difficulty accepting the fact that their child may be going through some kind of mental or emotional stress.
If you were reared by a narcissist, you know the extent to which they can destroy your life, wreck your emotional health, ruin your relationships, and bring your self-confidence to the lowest level possible.
Even on special occasions, a narcissist can really make your life, hellish!
How Do Narcissist Parents Ruin Their Child’s Life?
Narcissistic parenting can leave long-lasting impacts on a child’s personality. It can cause them to grow up into an anxious, paranoid adult, turn them into a self-blaming individual, and make them feel terrified of their needs among various other repercussions.
If you were brought up by someone who suffered from Narcissistic Personality Disorder, you may relate to the following effects:
- Since narcissistic parents are ignorant of their child’s feelings, their kids often indulge in self-blame and become more quiet, isolated, and emotionally-sensitive.
- Individuals who’ve been with narcissistic parents struggle to find a voice of their own and may end up with extremely narcissistic or borderline life partners.
- The emotional absence, neglect, and abuse inflicted by a narcissistic parent can make you question all your relationships and feel insecure about all of your relationships. As a result, you may often subconsciously shut people out of your world.
- Children brought up by narcissistic parents learn to bury their needs because they’re made to feel as if no one cares. Hence, they tend to grow up into an immensely needy individual who, when a crisis hits, would incessantly call his/her friends and seek constant assurance and drain every support they can access.
- A child who’s aggressive by nature may become even more loud and bold to make sure they are heard. And, in a sense, may grow up to become an extremely narcissistic person, him or herself.
What’s the right way to deal with narcissistic parenting?
If you’re financially independent, go grey-rock – avoid arguing with or talking too much to the narcissist in your life. Apart from that, consult a therapist and don’t let your emotional health be controlled by your narcissistic parent.