The spiritual narcissist appears too good to be true, often preying on individuals predisposed to high ideals and seeking answers to existential questions. They exclaim, "Look no further! I am just what you were looking for! The universe/God/Creator has predestined our meeting!" Concealed beneath their friendly, charismatic facade lies a devourer of souls. Recognising the following eight traits can help prevent falling victim to their manipulative tactics.
Narcissism has become a familiar concept, with an estimated 16% of the population exhibiting traits of grandiosity, superiority, entitlement, lack of empathy, and an extreme desire for attention. While most people encounter narcissism in intimate, familial, or work settings, the spiritual narcissist presents a unique challenge, masquerading as a "nice" or "good" person dedicated to a higher purpose.
Encounters with spiritual narcissists can happen anywhere, from church gatherings to health seminars or online platforms. Their confidence and apparent wisdom may captivate and dazzle unsuspecting individuals seeking guidance.
Differentiating spiritual narcissists from other narcissistic personalities is crucial. While the average spiritual narcissist may display superiority about their belief system, those with a full-blown personality disorder pose a more significant threat. These individuals believe they have a divine right to manipulate and control others, often tormenting anyone who challenges their authority. They may assume leadership roles in various settings, from cults to wellness businesses, exploiting their followers' vulnerability.
8 Traits to Look Out For
Supremacy. Spiritual narcissists wield a God complex, believing they are superior beings chosen by a higher power to exert control. Rejection of their distorted self-image is met with rage, as they perceive any denial of their grandiosity as an act against the Almighty.
Love bombing is a tactic commonly employed by narcissists, is amplified in spiritual contexts. Victims are made to feel a special bond, only for intimate details shared in confidence to be later weaponised against them.
Deception a hallmark of spiritual narcissists, who manipulate their followers through false narratives and distorted interpretations of spiritual texts. Their grooming tactics dull critical thinking skills, making their followers susceptible to extreme versions of reality dictated by the narcissist.
Threats are a powerful tool in the arsenal of spiritual narcissists, who use divine punishment or promises of bliss in the afterlife to coerce compliance. Victims' higher-order thinking is compromised as fear tactics trigger trauma responses, replacing independent thinking with blind obedience.
Victim-blaming happens when a person shares a horrific story, like an assault, they may respond with something along the lines of suggesting it was their karma, God’s will, or the fulfilment of an unconscious desire. The casual lack of empathy and recognition of a victim of crime’s experience erodes self identity, thus paving the way for further exploitation.
Word salads happen when you ask your spiritual narcissist a question and they respond by using catch-phrases, elaborate terminology, and sound bites of common analogies. You’re able to recognise parts of what they are saying, but since none of it actually makes sense, you’re left doubting your comprehension skills instead of doubting the messenger.
Special Knowledge: Spiritual narcissists don’t rely purely conventional knowledge and wisdom. They generally go one step further by convincing others they have a been especially chosen (by Jesus, an angel, an alien being, the forces of the universe, etc.) to convey a special message to others. They’ll may also claim to have sacred knowledge or insights that’s been handed to them through past lives, dreams, environmental signs or channeling (hearing voices in their head that are believed to come from some celestial origin).
Coercive Control includes the encouragement of “us” versus “them” mentality, isolation from family and friends, exploitative labour practices, controls personal finances, surveillance of communication, and micromanaging of behaviour (like limits on how much peanut butter can be put on toast or how many toilet paper sheets are allowed per bathroom visit), the chances the group it’s being lead by a spiritual narcissist.
The biggest misconception about spiritual narcissists is that they are simply following bad doctrines. This is not the case. The theologies of a spiritual narcissistic are designed to be oppressive, and because they perceive themselves to be special and have a mystical connection to the divine, they feel justified in dominating and controlling others.
The spiritual narcissist is not really concerned about the well-being of those who follow them, they are interested in control. Their abuse of power may not leave physical scars, but their coercive control can cause severe psychologically damage, which ranges from PTSD to loss of trust in legitimate spiritual exploration.
While not all religious leaders are spiritual narcissists, it's essential to recognize the signs and tactics used by these manipulative individuals. Coercive control legislation that includes cultural kinship and alternative relationship groups may help protect vulnerable individuals from spiritual abuse.
Recognising typical tactics employed by spiritual narcissists is the first step in safeguarding against their manipulative influence. Education and exposure are vital tools in preventing further harm and empowering victims to share their stories.
References
Campbell, W. K., Hoffman, B. J., Campbell, S. M., & Marchisio, G. (2011). Narcissism in Organizational Contexts. *Human Resource Management Review, 21*(4), 268-284.
Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ*. New York: Bantam Books.
Hassan, S. (2015). Freedom of Mind: Helping Loved Ones Leave Controlling People, Cults, and Beliefs. Boston: Freedom of Mind Press.
Lalich, J., & Tobias, M. (2006). Take Back Your Life: Recovering from Cults and Abusive Relationships. Berkeley: Bay Tree Publishing.
Comments