Narcissistic supply

Matthew Boland, PhD, descibes narcissistic supply thusly:

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Narcissistic supply is the driving force behind many narcissistic behaviors. Recognizing the signs and patterns can help you set boundaries, get support, and care for your well-being. If you know someone with narcissistic personality traits or narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), you may be familiar with some of the ways they attempt to maintain a sense of superiority. It may be through: a constant need for validation lack of empathy manipulation other controlling behaviors At the heart of narcissistic behavior is narcissistic supply, a term that refers to the emotional sustenance narcissists seek to maintain their self-esteem and self-worth.

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PsycheCentral indicates:

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Narcissists employ various tactics to obtain the supply they desire, says Dr. Ryan Sultan, teaching psychiatrist at Columbia University in New York. “Some narcissists resort to aggressive behaviors, while others use charm and charisma to elicit admiration,” he notes. “The specific methods used can vary widely among individuals with narcissistic traits.” Other common tactics include: manipulation emotional coercion feigned affection control or dominance over others intimidation negative attention excessive admiration notoriety

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