Never judge or bully someone because of their weird mannerisms; they might have developed those habits due to narcissistic abuse. Narcissistic abuse can leave people feeling anxious, insecure, and on edge. The way they react or express themselves may seem odd to outsiders, but it’s important to remember that these mannerisms are often coping mechanisms shaped by their experiences.
Today, we’ll take a closer look at some of these peculiar habits, what they mean, and how understanding them can help us support those who’ve been through so much.
1. Pausing Mid-Sentence
Are you ready for number one? Pausing mid-sentence can happen when you’ve been through narcissistic abuse. You might catch yourself hesitating, unsure if what you’re saying makes sense or if it’s even okay to express it. This occurs because, during the abuse, you were often made to feel like your thoughts or feelings weren’t valid, leading to a tendency to second guess yourself in conversations. Psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula explains that narcissists warp your reality, causing you to question yourself even in the smallest interactions.
Listen closely: consciously remind yourself that your thoughts and feelings are valid, and practice expressing them confidently, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.
2. Nervous Laughter
Nervous laughter in uncomfortable situations is another behavior seen in survivors of narcissistic abuse. Their bodies and minds adapt in strange ways, such as defaulting to nervous laughter when things become awkward. This is almost like a defense mechanism—an attempt by their brain to diffuse tension. Psychologist Dr. Albert Ellis noted that our reactions often stem from deeply rooted emotions and experiences. Instead of showing fear or frustration, they laugh, even if it feels out of place.
To deal with this, cultivate self-awareness by recognizing the triggers for your laughter. Consciously practice responding with a more authentic expression of your feelings, such as calmly stating your discomfort or concern.
3. Nervously Repeating Phrases
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