Coping with narcissism can be very difficult, since people who suffer from this personality disorder often don't have the skills to relate to others on a mature emotional level. The causes of narcissism are believed to include childhood neglect or abuse, which can leave the adult narcissist struggling with fears of abandonment, low self-esteem, and feelings of worthlessness or shame related to childhood trauma. As a result of these feelings, many narcissists are manipulative, abusive and controlling. They are unable to understand or appreciate the feelings, opinions or needs of others, making conflicts frequent and conflict resolution nearly impossible. Coping with the disorder in loved ones generally requires a strong sense of self, personal needs, and boundaries, as well emotional support from healthy adults and a certain level of control over one's own emotional reactions.
Psychologists generally agree that a strong emotional support system is one of the most essential elements of coping with narcissism in others. Narcissism can and almost always does have a devastating effect on relationships, so much so that most narcissists find themselves unable to maintain healthy, long-term relationships. Persons attempting to cope with a narcissistic partner, co-worker, or relative are generally advised to seek the support and friendship of at least three, but preferably more, emotionally and psychologically healthy adults. These should generally be people who will refrain from supporting, encouraging, or in any way defending the narcissist or his behavior. Regular, frequent meetings with this support network can be invaluable to those coping with narcissism, since they can provide the opportunity to discuss the narcissistic behavior from a well-adjusted perspective.
Most people cannot cope with a narcissist if they themselves do not have solid personal boundaries. Those coping with narcissism in others are typically advised to remain very clear on their own needs, desires, and limits. The narcissistic person may habitually attempt to manipulate those close to him. It is considered important to resist this manipulation, so as to remain within the realms of one's boundaries at all times.
People who suffer from narcissism are generally well-known for subjecting their loved ones, partners and friends to violent emotional outbursts, threats and even violence. Those who struggle to cope with this behavior are generally advised to reign in their own emotional reactions, instead responding to the narcissist's outburst with calmness. The narcissist should generally not be expected to relinquish his position, but may continue to make unreasonable demands and perform unacceptable behaviors. Friends and loved ones coping with this behavior are typically advised to insist on receiving respect and consideration from the narcissistic person, even in the face of extreme anger or emotional manipulation. Attempting to cope with narcissism can, however, cause so much distress that many experts advise simply terminating any relationship with a narcissistic person, if possible.
