Psychologist explains how to spot ‘dark empath’ narcissists that can be extremely dangerous
Researchers have questioned the belief that narcissists inherently lack empathy
A 'dark empath' narcissist can be as dangerous as it sounds.
It's unknown how many people truly have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), a mental health condition characterised by a number of 'selfish' traits.
Having the odd selfish thought, however, doesn't mean you're a narcissist, but there are various 'red flags' that you might want to look out for.
A high sense of self-importance, an excessive need for attention, and quite often a lack of empathy towards others, are all things to keep an eye on.
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Although the idea that narcissistic traits inherently lack empathy isn't always the case with 'dark empath' narcissists, according to Dr. Nadja Heym, Associate Professor of Personality Psychology and Psychopathology at Nottingham Trent University.
They are said to use manipulative techniques in ways a normal narcissist wouldn't.
What is a 'dark empath' narcissist?
A new personality label - known as the 'dark empath' - combines high dark-traits with above-average empathy, making these individuals, possibly, really dangerous to be around.
In a 2021 study with nearly 1,000 participants, Heym’s team identified a 'dark empath' cluster: people who scored high on dark traits such as psychopathy and narcissism, while also showing impressive levels of affective empathy.
As reported by Science Focus, about 20 percent fit this profile after agreeing with statements like ‘most people can be manipulated’, ‘people who mess with me always regret it’, ‘people see me as a natural leader’ and ‘it’s not wise to tell your secrets’.
“These are people who probably have quite high self-confidence, are quite bolshy, quite assertive; people who get their way,” Heym said.
“They might not be the friendliest people and they do things that are good for their own goals even if that means overstepping others.”
What makes a 'dark empath' narcissist dangerous?
Charm with ulterior motive
Their empathy is calculated because they understand how others feel and use this to manipulate and to mask selfish intentions as care.
“It’s about putting ourselves on a similar level to the other person so we can sync, so we can be better connected,” says Heym.
“People with high emotional intelligence are good at doing that. That’s different from empathy, which is about understanding how others feel.”
Highly social and driven
Dark empaths tend to have an above-average drive, as well as reward-based behaviours. They can climb social or professional ladders relatively unnoticed.
“They’re go-getters, or what we refer to as ‘successful psychopaths’,” says Heym.
“With [traditional] psychopathy, we wouldn’t expect a lot of achievement drive; they often don’t really care to do well. But if they do want something, then they’ll go for it.”
Emotionally elusive
They can appear empathetic, making them difficult to detect. Yet unlike traditional narcissists, who tend to show low empathy, dark empaths use emotional insight to advance themselves.
How to spot a 'dark empath'
Inconsistency in relationships
They may appear caring at first, but then become deceitful, controlling, or unfaithful, often leaving victims confused.
“They may seem really nice and caring, and then suddenly they just do these horrible things and it’s really confusing,” the expert added.
Strategic information gathering
Although they may show interest in personal details, they will later use them against you in a power move.
Surface empathy
Even though they might appear to be understanding, their empathy may lack depth, serving more as a tactical advantage than an emotional bond.
Topics: Health, Sex and Relationships
Anish Vij