Narcissism Terms
A clear and simple glossary of key narcissism-related terms and definitions. In-depth explanations to help you understand behaviour, recognise patterns and gain clarity.
Addiction to Attention
A core feature of narcissistic behaviour. Narcissists crave constant attention, validation and admiration.
A description of persistent attention-seeking and desire for validation or admiration. These behaviours alone do not establish a clinical diagnosis.
Baiting
A manipulative tactic used to provoke a reaction, often to create conflict, drama or to gain control.
Baiting describes behaviour intended to provoke an emotional reaction, such as an argument, and then use that reaction within a conflict.
Charming
Narcissists often use charm as a tool to create a positive first impression, gain trust and...
Charm can create a favourable first impression and build trust. Being charming by itself is not a sign of a personality disorder.
Discard
The sudden withdrawal of attention, affection and interest once the narcissist no longer gains supply...
Discard is a term often used in discussions of harmful relationship dynamics to describe a sudden withdrawal or ending of the relationship.
Emotional Manipulation
The use of guilt, fear, confusion and other tactics to control how someone thinks, feels or behaves...
Emotional manipulation describes attempts to influence someone through guilt, fear, confusion or similar pressure rather than honest communication.
Flying Monkeys
People who are manipulated by a narcissist into supporting their narrative, spreading rumours or...
Flying monkeys is an informal term for third parties recruited or influenced to take sides, spread messages or apply pressure during interpersonal conflict.
Gaslighting
A form of psychological manipulation designed to make you doubt your own memory...
Gaslighting refers to a pattern of manipulation that undermines someone’s confidence in their recollection, perceptions or judgement.
Hoovering
Attempts to pull you back into the relationship after a discard, often through fake apology...
Hoovering is an informal term for attempts to re-establish contact or draw someone back into a relationship after a separation.
Idealisation
The early stage of the relationship where the narcissist showers you with attention, praise and affection...
Idealisation is the process of viewing or presenting another person in an unusually perfect or highly positive light.
Jealousy
Narcissists often experience extreme jealousy and envy, even while expecting unwavering loyalty...
Jealousy involves fear or distress about losing a valued relationship or position. Its presence alone does not identify a particular personality style.
Karmic Relationship
An intense but often toxic relationship that brings repetitive cycles of pain, lessons and growth...
Karmic relationship is a popular, non-clinical expression for an intense relationship perceived as repeating important lessons or patterns.
Love Bombing
An early tactic where the narcissist overwhelms you with attention, affection and grand gestures...
Love bombing commonly refers to an intense display of attention, gifts or affection that may be used to accelerate closeness or influence another person.
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