When you see that the narcissist is enraged, do not continue engaging with them. Physically distance yourself from them as much as possible, ignore them, or avoid any interaction with them. Most importantly, set your boundaries and know they will try to manipulate these whenever given the opportunity.
Narcissistic rage can last for a long time. As some of the most self-loathing people on the planet, narcissists have a ton of internalized rage so in a sense, narcissistic rage never ends.
Although narcissists act superior to others and posture as beyond reproach, underneath their grandiose exteriors lurk their deepest fears: That they are flawed, illegitimate, and ordinary.
They are often driven from agitation into an aggressive rage with a simple trigger. Any small play against their ego, perfectionism, or a slight action against their image of self-worth, may be enough to trigger narcissistic rage.
It comes hand-in-hand with this that narcissists hate being criticised or called out. Which is exactly why there's one word in particular narcissistic people cannot stand: "no".
Narcissists are highly sensitive to criticism or any perceived threat to their self-image, and they will go to great lengths to protect it. If you criticize them or challenge their dominance, you will trigger a defensive response.
More often than not, when a narcissist gets old, they no longer have the resources they once had and are unable to get the admiration and attention they once commanded.
It's commonly known that, like people with antisocial personality disorder (also known as sociopathy), narcissistic people aren't able to feel remorse when they hurt someone. But this isn't necessarily true all the time. Some narcissists may be able to feel bad about something they've done to hurt someone else.
A monumental weakness in the narcissist is the failure to look internally and flesh out what needs to be worked on. Then, of course, the next step is to spend time improving. The narcissist sabotages any possibility of looking deep within.
Narcissists want to be in control of everything, and that includes the plans you make with them. If you want to drive a narcissist crazy, be late to time-sensitive plans to throw off their day. Be unreliable so they never know what to expect from you next.
Narcissistic rage can be explosive or scheming, but the aim is always to restore their dominance and repair the damage they perceive has been done to their ego. Explosive rage can include screaming, threats, physical aggression, breaking or throwing things, and other furious outbursts.
A powerful way to take control from a narcissist is to stop trying to please them. Focus on your own needs, thoughts, and feelings. Use clear, assertive language that emphasizes your own perspective. By prioritizing your stand, you show your independence and make it harder for them to manipulate you.
One very effective tactic is to beat them at their own game. Anticipate their irrational reactions before they happen and call them out on it ahead of time. Use their own desire to always be right and to always prove you wrong against them.
