Triangulation is a manipulative tactic used by narcissists to create conflict or competition among people, often to maintain control. Here are signs you may be experiencing triangulation:
- Comparison and Competition: The narcissist compares you to others, fostering a sense of competition and inadequacy to keep you striving for their validation.
- Gossip and Rumors: They spread rumors or gossip about you to third parties, creating a negative image and causing distrust in your relationships.
- Playing Both Sides: The narcissist manipulates different parties, portraying you as the problem to one group while acting supportive to your face, creating confusion and mistrust.
- Misleading Information: They give conflicting information to people involved, distorting facts to provoke conflicts and maintain control over the narrative.
- Seeking Validation From Others: They seek validation or support from others for decisions that directly affect you, undermining your position and making you question your worth or decisions.
- Gaslighting: The narcissist may deny or distort what they said to one person, claiming you misunderstood, causing confusion and making you doubt your perception of events.
- Using Children or Family: They involve family members or children, using them as a way to triangulate and control you emotionally and psychologically.
- Pitting Friends or Family Against You: They create a divide by exaggerating or fabricating disagreements, turning friends or family members against you to isolate you.
- Creating Drama and Chaos: Narcissists may engineer situations that cause conflict between you and others, enjoying the drama and chaos that ensues.
- Withholding Information: They purposely withhold information from you, making you feel left out and disconnected from the situation or relationship dynamics.
Being aware of these signs can help you recognize when you’re being triangulated and take steps to protect yourself from manipulation and emotional harm.
My Voice Unchained 