15 Signs of Somatic Narcissist And What To Do

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A somatic narcissist is a subtype of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) characterized by an excessive preoccupation with their physical appearance and an obsession with being perceived as physically attractive. They believe that their beauty and physical prowess set them apart from others, giving them a sense of superiority and entitlement.

While all narcissists share some common traits, such as self-centeredness, lack of empathy, and an inflated sense of self-importance, somatic narcissists specifically prioritize their physical appearance and use it as a tool to manipulate and control others. They often engage in excessive grooming, spend significant amounts of time and money on their appearance, and seek constant validation and admiration for their looks.

Who is a somatic narcissist?

Somatic narcissists are individuals who have an intense preoccupation with their physical appearance and believe that their attractiveness sets them apart from others. They prioritize their outer beauty and use it as a means to gain admiration, attention, and control over those around them. This subtype of narcissistic personality disorder displays a strong sense of entitlement and superiority based on their physical attributes.

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15 Signs of a Somatic Narcissist

1. Excessive focus on physical appearance:

A Somatic narcissist spends an excessive amount of time and energy on their physical appearance, constantly seeking ways to enhance their beauty or attractiveness. They may engage in intensive grooming rituals, spend significant amounts of money on cosmetic procedures or clothing, and obsess over their looks.

2. Attention-seeking behavior:

Somatic narcissists constantly seek attention and validation from others. They crave admiration and will go to great lengths to ensure that they are the center of attention in any social setting. They may dress provocatively, flaunt their body, or engage in attention-seeking behaviors to draw attention to themselves.

3. Excessive bragging about physical attributes:

Somatic narcissists often boast about their physical appearance and believe that their attractiveness is superior to others. They may constantly talk about their beauty, body shape, or physical features in an exaggerated and self-aggrandizing manner.

4. Constant need for validation:

Somatic narcissists require constant validation and affirmation from others regarding their physical appearance. They seek reassurance that they are attractive, desirable, and superior to others regarding their looks. Without this external validation, they may experience feelings of insecurity and low self-worth.

5. Lack of empathy:

Somatic narcissists often lack empathy towards others, especially when it comes to physical appearance. They may disregard or dismiss the struggles or insecurities of others, believing that their beauty is more important.

6. Manipulative behavior:

Somatic narcissists may use their physical attractiveness as a tool to manipulate and control others. They may use their looks to charm and seduce others, manipulate situations to their advantage, or exploit the insecurities of others for personal gain.

Related: How to Hurt a Narcissist

7. Obsession with social media and selfies:

Somatic narcissists are often obsessed with social media platforms and constantly posting selfies or pictures showcasing their physical appearance. They use social media as a means to gain attention, admiration, and validation for their looks.

8. Dismissive of others’ physical appearance:

Somatic narcissists may dismiss or belittle the physical appearance of others, believing that they are superior in terms of beauty or attractiveness. They may criticize or make derogatory comments about the looks of others to boost their ego.

9. Lack of genuine relationships:

Somatic narcissists often struggle with forming genuine and deep connections with others due to their preoccupation with their physical appearance. They may prioritize superficial relationships based on appearance and use others as objects for validation rather than seeking emotional connection.

10. Envious of others’ physical appearance:

Despite their own belief in their superior attractiveness, somatic narcissists may feel envious or threatened by the physical appearance of others. They may become competitive and engage in comparison with others, constantly trying to outdo or surpass them in terms of looks.

11. Excessive materialism:

Somatic narcissists often have a strong focus on material possessions that enhance their physical appearance. They may prioritize acquiring expensive clothing, jewelry, or beauty products to boost their self-esteem and maintain their image of superiority.

12. Grandiose sense of self-importance:

Somatic narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and believe that they are superior to others based on their physical appearance. They may exaggerate their achievements or talents, believing that their beauty gives them an elevated status in society.

Related: How to manipulate a Narcissist

13. Lack of accountability:

Somatic narcissists often struggle with taking responsibility for their actions, especially when it comes to how their behavior affects others. They may blame others or external factors for any negative consequences, refusing to acknowledge their role in causing harm or distress.

Related: Things every Narcissist hates

14. Need for constant admiration:

Somatic narcissists have an insatiable need for admiration and compliments from others. They constantly seek validation and praise for their physical appearance, expecting others to affirm their attractiveness and superiority.

15. Superficial relationships:

Somatic narcissists tend to prioritize superficial and transactional relationships based on appearance and physical attraction. They may engage in short-term or casual relationships that revolve around their physical beauty, rather than seeking deeper emotional connections with others.

Handling a Somatic Narcissist

Handling a somatic narcissist can present unique challenges, requiring careful consideration and strategic approaches. Implementing the following strategies can help navigate interactions with a somatic narcissist while safeguarding your emotional well-being:

1. Establishing clear and firm boundaries is crucial when dealing with a somatic narcissist.

Communicate your limits and expectations to protect yourself from their manipulation and disrespect. Consistency in enforcing these boundaries will help establish a sense of safety and control in your interactions with the narcissist.

2. Focus on your self-esteem and self-worth.

Remember that the opinions and judgments of a somatic narcissist do not define your value as a person. Invest time and energy into building your self-esteem through self-care, positive affirmations, and surrounding yourself with supportive people who appreciate and value you for who you are.

3. Avoid engaging in competition with the somatic narcissist.

They thrive on comparison and winning, so refusing to participate in their games can help protect your mental well-being. Focus on your growth, goals, and happiness instead.

4. Seek support from trusted friends, family members, or a therapist.

Dealing with a somatic narcissist can be emotionally draining and challenging. Having a support system in place can provide you with the emotional support and guidance you need to navigate interactions with the narcissist.

5. Practice self-care and self-compassion.

Taking care of your own physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential when dealing with a somatic narcissist. Engage in activities that bring you joy, practice relaxation techniques, and prioritize self-compassion and self-care. Remember to prioritize your own needs and well-being above the demands and expectations of the somatic narcissist.

6. Educate yourself about narcissism:

Understanding the characteristics and behaviors of a somatic narcissist can help you navigate interactions with them more effectively. Educate yourself about narcissistic personality disorder and seek resources that provide insight into dealing with this type of individual.

7. Practice assertiveness:

Be assertive in expressing your needs, opinions, and boundaries to the somatic narcissist. Communicate your limits and expectations without being aggressive or confrontational.

8. Stay calm and composed:

Somatic narcissists can be emotionally volatile and provoke reactions from others. Stay calm and composed during interactions with them, refusing to engage in their attempts to manipulate or upset you.

9. Avoid being drawn into their drama:

Somatic narcissists often create drama and seek attention. Avoid getting caught up in their theatrics and instead, focus on your well-being.

10. Practice detachment:

Detach yourself emotionally from the somatic narcissist’s manipulative tactics and behavior. Recognize that their actions are not a reflection of your worth or value.

11. Set realistic expectations:

Accept that you cannot change or fix the somatic narcissist. Set realistic expectations for your interactions with them and focus on protecting yourself rather than trying to change their behavior.

12. Trust your instincts:

If something feels off or manipulative in your interactions with a somatic narcissist, trust your instincts. Your intuition can often guide you in recognizing manipulation and safeguarding your well-being.

13. Maintain healthy boundaries:

Establish and maintain clear boundaries with the somatic narcissist. This includes setting limits on their behavior, refusing to tolerate disrespect or manipulation, and consistently enforcing these boundaries.

14. Take breaks from interactions:

Recognize when you need a break from interacting with the somatic narcissist. It’s okay to take time for yourself and prioritize your well-being.

Somatic vs. Cerebral Narcissist

Understand the difference between a somatic narcissist and a cerebral narcissist. While both types of narcissists share traits such as grandiosity and a lack of empathy, somatic narcissists focus more on their physical appearance, sexual prowess, and material possessions to gain attention and admiration. Cerebral narcissists, on the other hand, emphasize their intellectual abilities, achievements, and knowledge to establish their superiority.

To Wrap It Up

A somatic narcissist is someone who has an excessive preoccupation with their physical appearance and uses it as a means to gain admiration, control, and validation from others. They lack empathy toward others’ struggles with insecurities and prioritize superficial relationships based on appearance.

They exhibit manipulative behavior, obsession with social media and selfies, dismissiveness towards others’ physical appearance, lack of genuine relationships, envy of others’ physical appearance, excessive materialism, grandiose sense of self-importance, lack of accountability, need for constant admiration, and engagement in superficial relationships.