Some arguments do not start as arguments. It usually begins with a relaxed expression, a text that sounds like a distraction or an accusation from somewhere. And before you know it, you are investing in a conflict you do not want. That is the classic example of using bait!
This deceptive trick is like a sport for gamblers, and it is used to get your reaction so they can regain control of you.
Narcissists love attention management and drama, and one of the easiest ways they get what they want is by making you. This is a trick that can make you feel confused, angry, guilty or depressed.
But what is narcissistic bait and how do you observe it before you get caught? Come and see 8 common crab baiting techniques to be careful!
What is Narcissistic bait?
It is a deliberate ploy to provoke strong emotions in you. Temperament evokes anger, fear, or guilt because it empowers them to control it in this way, directing the whole energy to suit their needs.
Read more here: 5 Dark weaknesses of the Narcissists that show their fragility.
These Narcissistic bait tricks designed to set you off
1. Stone wall
You talk about things that bother you and hopefully have a mature conversation. Instead, they shut down completely. Suddenly they can not reach, your article is not answered, your question is ignored.
Stonewalling does not always require space for jokers, it often makes you anxious enough to chase them.
Example: They do not talk to you for days after an argument. And when you go in and check out how good they are, they pretend there is nothing wrong and make you feel crazy.
2. Fear
Narcissists can use fear to keep you out of balance. In the worst-case scenario, they make you anxious and create a sense of dependence and urgency.
Example: You say you are setting boundaries and they immediately say, “If you continue to do this, do not expect anyone to come near” or “You will regret it when everyone is against you”.
They just want you to rethink yourself a second time so you don’t take that step.
3. Passive-Aggressive Behavior
Not all insults come in the form of direct insults. Sometimes it is an awkward expression, a big sigh, or a cold sound that makes you feel like something is wrong.
The tricky part? If you call them out, they will often refuse.
Example: You share exciting information about a promotion and they reply, “Wow, there must be plenty of free time to impress your boss.” When you seem to be in pain, they insist they are just kidding.
4. False accusations
This is one of the most annoying bait techniques: when they accuse you of something completely untrue.
This is not what they are accusing you of. Instead, it wants to draw you into an emotional debate where you have to defend yourself.
For example, they may claim that you deliberately ignored them when you just missed their call. The next thing you know, you are stuck in showing your innocence for an hour for something unimportant.
5. Mistakes – Wandering
There are few things that are more tiring than making you feel guilty about having a normal need.
Narcissists often point out everything they do for you, trying to make you feel like you owe them loyalty, attention, or endless forgiveness.
Like when you hit after a hard week and skip an event. They may say, “After I did, will you reject me like this?” And now you are stuck, confirming your completely reasonable choice.
6. Intrigue
Ever received a secret message that makes your stomach drop suddenly? Narcissists sometimes deceive people by providing enough information to arouse curiosity or anxiety while keeping things full.
Example: They send a message saying “Wow… I just found something interesting about you” and then disappear for hours. Uncertainty makes you think about them, wondering what they know and what happens next.
7. False hope
Sometimes narcissistic bait can seem positive. It is wrapped in promises, apologies and dreams of a better future. For a moment, I felt that things were changing.
They promise to do better, communicate more, or stop behaviors that hurt you. Often these promises come true as soon as you decide to leave. They give you a reason to stay and hope for the best. And things change, but it takes a while and then the old model comes back.
Example: After a painful behavior on a regular basis, they will promise to go for treatment, try to communicate better, or stop crossing your borders. And like everyone else, you decide to give them another chance to realize that nothing has changed.
8. And the latter triggers an emotional response
Probably the most personal form of narcissistic baiting involves the use of your vulnerability against you.
They know exactly which button to push because they have spent time learning something that hurts, frightens, or frustrates you.
Example: If they know you are sensitive about being fired, they may intentionally push you out of the project and then claim that you are overreacting. If they know you have struggled with self-confidence, they may have repeatedly expressed their insecurities.
When you are unhappy, they tend to focus on your reaction rather than what is causing it.
Read more here: 8 ‘Narcissistic Wounds’ Signs that explain their sudden personality change.
How to respond to Narcissistic bait
- Do not react immediately.
- Lead endless debate.
- There is no reason to defend yourself against the obvious. Provocation.
- If you must respond, keep it short and to the point.
- When you are deceived, walk away.
- Keep your peace of mind; Do not worry about winning their argument.
The good news is that once you know these erotic bait examples, you will know how to respond to erotic baits and you can choose not to bait…
So let us know if you have ever encountered a similar story or write your thoughts in the comments below!
