Who Do Narcissists Target? - 4 Personality Types Who Become Their Victims

A narcissist feels the inherent need to control, manipulate, and lie. They lack empathy for their victims and believe they are above everyone else, which for them, seems to play an important role in justifying their harmful actions. To top this off, these folks are also extremely jealous of other people, to the point where they make it their mission to hinder their progress and bring them down. 🤯 That’s right, people who suffer from this personality disorder certainly aren’t above going out of their way to purposely create drama as a way of holding others back in an attempt to fulfill their own twisted fantasies. Now that we’ve covered what motivates these people to act so deviously, it’s time to find out whom they choose as victims.

>>> Read up on the traits of a narcissist.

What kind of people do narcissists target? - 4 Personalities they target 🎯

Whether it’s in love, friendship, or at work, these human vampires will do everything in their power to bring these personality types down.

1) Successful and influential people

Narcissists thrive on the thrill of taking down someone others admire. These "challenges" feed their ego and help them assert dominance in their personal and professional circles. For example, in workplace dynamics, narcissistic colleagues may undermine a rising star by spreading rumors or taking credit for their achievements. Look out for these power-hungry tendencies if you're known as an achiever in your circle.

2) Individuals who struggle with confidence

Manipulation is easiest when the victim doubts their own worth. Narcissists prey on such individuals by offering fleeting validation and protection, only to strip it away as the victim becomes dependent. This cycle keeps the victim trapped in a whirlwind of self-doubt and control.

3) Recently heartbroken individuals

In the aftermath of a breakup, emotions can run high, making you an ideal target for toxic personalities. Narcissists may swoop in under the guise of being your "savior," offering support that quickly becomes a means of manipulation. If you’ve just survived a tough breakup, take time to heal before jumping into another relationship.

4) People who look up to them

Narcissists are often charismatic and skilled at crafting a magnetic image of themselves. They target those who admire them, using their charm to create dependency. While their words and actions might seem harmless at first, they eventually turn manipulative.

Those that narcissists perceive as weak and feeble are probably the least exciting victims for them to dominate because they don’t exactly put up a huge fight, yet they are arguably the easiest to exercise power over.

Who do covert narcissists target?

Covert narcissists often target individuals who can provide them with the admiration, validation, and emotional support they crave while allowing them to maintain their facade of humility and sensitivity. Here are the typical targets of covert narcissists:

• 1) Empathetic individuals: People who are highly empathetic and compassionate are prime targets for covert narcissists. Their willingness to understand and support others makes them susceptible to the covert narcissist’s manipulative tactics.
• 2) Insecure or low self-esteem: Individuals with low self-esteem or those who are insecure about themselves are often targeted because they are more likely to seek validation and approval, making them easier to control and manipulate.
• 3) High achievers: Covert narcissists may target high achievers or successful individuals to bask in their reflected glory. Associating with accomplished people enhances the narcissist’s own self-image and provides a source of admiration.
• 4) People-pleasers: Those who have a strong desire to please others and avoid conflict can be easily manipulated by covert narcissists. Their tendency to prioritize others’ needs over their own makes them vulnerable to exploitation.

How to stop being a target for narcissists - 5 Tips to protect yourself 💪

Now, no one wants to end up in a dead-end relationship with a narcissist, but at times we lose control and find ourselves way out of our depth. Although, all is not lost, because you can turn the tide and make active decisions to avoid falling into toxic people’s traps. By following the ensuing tips, you’ll take yourself from a potential victim to someone a narcissist will be too intimidated to even dream of approaching.

• 1) Create boundaries - Be clear about what you are uncomfortable with, and the consequences of heading into that territory with you.
• 2) Speak up for yourself - When you have something to say, just say it. Speaking your mind in a clear and concise manner will definitely catch these manipulators off guard.
• 3) Stay calm - No matter what heavy-arm tactics they try to use against you, don’t lash out. Opt for the higher ground by remaining calm and collected.
• 4) Get support - Being subjected to this type of abuse is exhausting, meaning you’ll need to blow off some steam whenever you are subjected to it. Plus, someone with a solid entourage scares these folks.
• 5) Learn about this personality disorder - Knowledge is power, and in this case, this couldn’t be truer.

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