Why does even gentle feedback feel like an attack? In this episode, we explore how the mind turns ordinary feedback into a perceived assault — and why that reaction exists for a reason. Narcissistic defensiveness isn’t just about arrogance or fragility; it’s a complex system designed to keep you ‘company.’ The very attack that harms also protects — preserving connection with an internalized other, even if that connection is punishing. Through clinical examples, we look at how this dynamic pl...
All content for The Narcissism Decoder is the property of Dr. Anthony Mazzella and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Why does even gentle feedback feel like an attack? In this episode, we explore how the mind turns ordinary feedback into a perceived assault — and why that reaction exists for a reason. Narcissistic defensiveness isn’t just about arrogance or fragility; it’s a complex system designed to keep you ‘company.’ The very attack that harms also protects — preserving connection with an internalized other, even if that connection is punishing. Through clinical examples, we look at how this dynamic pl...
How to Handle a Family Member with Narcissistic Traits: Tips for Responding | Epi 114
The Narcissism Decoder
26 minutes
1 month ago
How to Handle a Family Member with Narcissistic Traits: Tips for Responding | Epi 114
In this episode, we continue our conversation with Olivia Atkin as we explore what happens when a family member begins showing narcissistic traits — or even starts dividing the family. Together, we unpack how to recognize these patterns and how to engage someone like this. I share practical strategies to stay grounded, listen with empathy, avoid taking control, resist insisting on your reality, and find your own voice without getting pulled into the chaos. Tune in to discover how understandin...
The Narcissism Decoder
Why does even gentle feedback feel like an attack? In this episode, we explore how the mind turns ordinary feedback into a perceived assault — and why that reaction exists for a reason. Narcissistic defensiveness isn’t just about arrogance or fragility; it’s a complex system designed to keep you ‘company.’ The very attack that harms also protects — preserving connection with an internalized other, even if that connection is punishing. Through clinical examples, we look at how this dynamic pl...
