6 Unusual Habits of Covert Narcissists: Do These Traits Seem Familiar?

When you first begin learning about covert narcissism, it can feel like a lightbulb moment. Many people find their past relationships eerily reflected in the behaviors associated with this personality type. However, beyond the more obvious signs, such as gaslighting and manipulation, there are some strange habits that covert narcissists often exhibit. These quirks may leave you questioning whether they relate to narcissism or are just peculiar behaviors. In this article, we’ll explore six of the weird habits frequently seen in covert narcissists.

1. They Get Bored Easily

Covert narcissists tend to lose interest in things quickly, whether it’s a new hobby, gadget, or even relationships. At first, they may become obsessed with acquiring a new object, such as a phone or a car, talking about it constantly. However, their enthusiasm fades almost as fast as it started. Soon, they’ll begin neglecting the new item, eagerly chasing after the next exciting thing. This behavior mirrors how they treat people: they idealize you during the initial phase, but as time goes on, they lose interest and start seeking new sources of admiration.

2. Lack of a Sense of Humor

Interestingly, many covert narcissists have little to no sense of humor. This can manifest in different ways. Some may appear socially awkward, not understanding jokes or missing punchlines, leading to uncomfortable situations. Others might only show a sense of humor around friends, but the moment you tell a joke, they react with a stone-faced expression. This inconsistency suggests they may fake laughter to blend in socially, but in more intimate settings, they drop the act and reveal their genuine lack of enjoyment for humor.

3. They Are Extremely Private

Covert narcissists tend to keep their lives highly compartmentalized, creating distance between themselves and the people close to them. They often maintain an air of mystery, hiding personal details even from partners. Friends and family are kept at arm’s length, ensuring no one gets too close to witness the emotional abuse happening behind closed doors. This secrecy not only protects their image but also keeps their manipulative behavior hidden from those who might expose them.

4. They Talk Badly About Friends Behind Their Backs

If you’ve ever spent time with a covert narcissist, you may have noticed how quickly they criticize their friends the moment they leave the room. Despite spending time with people who seem like close companions, they waste no time dishing out negative comments about them. This behavior serves a dual purpose. By constantly disparaging others, covert narcissists create a narrative that protects them in case anyone ever tries to expose their true nature.

5. Porn Addiction

Though not every covert narcissist deals with this issue, many develop an unhealthy obsession with pornography. This addiction, more common in men but not exclusive to them, often consumes a significant portion of their time. In extreme cases, their porn consumption may contribute to relationship issues, such as erectile dysfunction, further complicating their intimate relationships. Whether they hide it or are open about it, the intensity of their obsession can be unsettling.

6. A Dysfunctional Relationship with Sex

Covert narcissists frequently have a complicated and unhealthy relationship with sex. They may use it as a form of control, withholding intimacy to manipulate their partner’s behavior. Alternatively, they may exhibit an insatiable need for sexual gratification, with little regard for their partner’s emotional state. For example, they may demand sex during inappropriate or emotionally difficult moments, such as when you’re grieving. Refusing them can lead to tantrums and emotional manipulation, leaving you feeling trapped.

Conclusion: Recognizing These Unusual Traits

These six habits may seem odd on the surface, but they are common traits that align with covert narcissism. While none of these habits alone confirm narcissism, recognizing several of them in someone you know could indicate that you’re dealing with a covert narcissist. Their ability to hide behind a veneer of normalcy, while engaging in strange or manipulative behavior, makes them difficult to identify. If these traits resonate with you, it may be time to reevaluate your relationship.
If you found these traits familiar and want to learn more, I recommend watching this video: 6 Weird Habits of a Covert Narcissist. It’s eye-opening to see how these small, unusual behaviors connect to a larger pattern of manipulation and control. Don’t hesitate to explore further if this resonates with you!