How To Spot A Machiavellian Narcissist

Machiavellian narcissists are defined by cunning and underhanded tactics as they deftly manipulate and misuse others. Dr. Les Carter highlights how you can become aware of their inclinations so you will be least susceptible to their exploits. Known for ruthlessness, they are among the most difficult personalities to contend with.

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Dr. Les Carter is a best selling author and therapist who has semi-retired to Waco, TX. In the past 40+ years he has conducted more than 65,000 counseling sessions and many workshops and seminars. He specializes in anger management and narcissistic personality disorder.

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[davidhinkson]

The quote I always remember from Machiavelli - "The end justifies the means" and that is exactly how narcissists behave; they don't care who they hurt as long as they get what they want.

[jawnsolo]

I read one of Machiavelli’s books. It’ll teach you a lot about how these people think. One of the quotes that stuck out to me was, “never win by force that which can be won by deception.”

[kathiemihindukulasuriya]

The most difficult is when you realize this pattern in a family member, but you are surrounded by family members who have the narcissist's back, instead of yours. They help the narcissist try to destroy you by agreeing that you are the problem and thus deserve to be treated badly. Especially, when you can see the lack of ethics but others are unable or choose not to and tell you not to "go too conspiracy theory", when you wonder what is in it for them or why they are doing something "good" for someone else.

[surlif]

Thank you, Dr. Carter! Oh my! No wonder I have had therapists tell me it is a miracle I am still breathing. I married into a family of highly covert but Machiavellian narcissist. And so much truth about these cunning scheming, diabolical people being relentless in their quest to make sure they kept me in my lowly place. I bought into it. I thought I was nothing. Lower than nothing. Trouble was they acted with such (false)civility, and with (false) dignity. I started being so upset, in the confusion and lack of self confidence that I gave them to point to. They dug up anything they could find on me like mistakes made way back in high school and did a smear campaign on me. I realize now it was because I came to know about many skeletons in their closet! Sometime, this information confirming what I knew on some level is almost shocking!!

[lizcuero]

I like one of the best advice I received “What others think about me is none of my business”🎉

[michelepascoe]

They admire their own ability to deceive others, and have no respect for good character traits such as honesty, kindness and humility. These they see as something to take advantage of.

[HamletsMill]

Hi Dr C! Today is my anniversary! I am now 4 years, “No contact, ” since Dec 5, 2018! Yes, I was here with you from the beginning of my new life. Thank you for you educating me, and for helping me to believe in myself!! ❤Hug Gus for me!! ❤

[douaa]

Observe their actions
It will speak louder than their words
🎄🎄🎄

[jeffreyzeiss]

Having known so many different kinds of narcissists in a strange way it's the gift that keeps on giving because the subject matter never gets tired. Absolutely fascinating!

[barbarawarner]

“The Prince” by Machiavelli is an easy and important read for anyone interested in power theory. Should be mandatory reading in HS, I think. It seems the world has an abundance of Machiavellin Narcissists.

[brucefriedman]

Observing cunning narcissists in action is akin to having a front row seat to the workings of Satan. They have succumbed to the material world while forsaking their soul for the trappings of earthly delights. Victims of narcissists have a plethora of negative reinforcement to guide them toward true joy and peace. It is the duty of recovered victims of narcissists to shine a light on the path of redemption.

[know]

I realized I had been surrounded by narcissists, then I begun the process of eliminating one by one people I loved and care for deeply ...They will take your essence if you let them....one more to go till freedom!

[alaynashalom]

Hi Dr C, This is my first time ever hearing about Machiavellian narcissists. I learned over the past 18 months that the narcissist in my life, who recently threw me out like trash (no contact, no closure), is a covert, passive-aggressive one. Having seen this video, I now know that he is also Machiavellian; he fit every one of the criteria you described. Thank you for using your expertise to put this information into words. We who have been preyed upon by a narcissist feel great relief to learn that you and others out there really know what we experience. Thank you!

[marjoriemurray]

I, honestly, have not listened to and watched a video describing one form of narcissism that did not describe the man I was married to for over 45 years. Every time I listened to a video that described a certain type of narcissist, all I could think was, “that is him” and this video is another one

[adonaiel-rohi]

A cunning narcissist can be confused for Machiavellian. They are not the same.

[georgegavallos]

Thank you Les for bringing this to light. St Paul warned us 2, 000 years ago. Take note of the narcissistic traits he mentions. And take heart of the last verse.
2 Timothy 3:1-7

1 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.
2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,
3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good,
4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God—
5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

5. “ have nothing to do with such people …. So run!!

[RadhE-ugon]

Thank you for talking about these people. It’s so hard to believe the way they behave. It’s sad to think that such evil exists.

[francesbernard]

In summary on how to spot Machiaveilian narcissism in someone we work with or socialize with: 1. Shrewd schemers. 2. Skilled manipulator. 3. Power over others is their drug of choice. 4. Behavior can turn on a dime. 5. Keeps a record of wrongs on as many people as possible so they can have power over them. 6. Maintains only a facade of decency. 7. Pursues their personal goals to feel more important than others. 8. 2 faced. 9. Self indulgence with loyalty being the lowest motivator on their to do list. 10. A weak conscience. The original play called Faust which was written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is about that sort of thing.

[adonaiel-rohi]

Morals are not the same as laws.

Sometimes they intersect but morals are not congruent with laws.

Morality is self enforced dogma that stops people from adapting to reality.

[adonaiel-rohi]

It’s impossible for a narcissist to be Machiavellian. Narcissists are immature, sloppy & impulsive. Machiavellians are mature, pragmatic & can regulate their emotions.

Patience & self esteem are big difference as well