Do Narcissists Reveal Their True Selves When Really Drunk?

In the age-old debate surrounding the true nature of individuals, a frequent discussion revolves around the behavior of narcissistic people when intoxicated. Do they reveal their true selves through increased grandiosity, emotional volatility, and lack of empathy, or do they continue to maintain their facade? This article delves into the nuances of narcissistic behavior during intoxication, presenting both theoretical insights and personal experiences.

Theoretical Insights on Narcissist Behavior While Drunk

Increased Grandiosity: Narcissists often use alcohol to lower their inhibitions, leading to more impulsive and unfiltered expressions of their emotions and thoughts. In this state, they may become even more boastful, emphasizing their achievements and superiority. This can be a form of validation-seeking behavior, aimed at affirming their inflated self-esteem.

Emotional Volatility: Alcohol can exacerbate mood swings, causing heightened anger or aggression if narcissists feel slighted or disrespected. This emotional volatility can be a direct result of lowered inhibitions and the reduced ability to filter their thoughts and emotions.

Lack of Empathy: Narcissists' already limited capacity for empathy is often diminished further by alcohol, leading to more self-centered or hurtful behavior towards others. This lack of empathy can be particularly harmful when combined with emotional volatility, as it can result in more brutal verbal or physical abuse.

Manipulative Behavior: Intoxication can amplify narcissistic traits, potentially leading to more overt manipulative tactics. Narcissists may use charm or aggression to get what they want, whether it's control over a situation or leveraging others for their benefit. This manipulation can be both subtle and overt, and often more effective in a state of intoxication.

Personal Experiences with Narcissism and Alcohol

Based on personal experiences, it is evident that alcohol can significantly alter the behavior of narcissists, revealing aspects of their true selves. I have observed several instances where a person's behavior changed dramatically when alcohol was involved.

Lovebombing and Idealisation Phase

During the initial phases of a relationship, narcissists often engage in what is known as 'lovebombing' or 'idealisation.' This phase involves a consistent display of affection, gifts, and compliments intended to create a powerful emotional connection. When alcohol is present, these behaviors can become even more exaggerated as the individual strives to control and manipulate the situation.

For example, a person in this phase might propose marriage or attempt seduction in a more overt manner. Despite their sometimes clumsy efforts, they often appear more practiced and calculated in these actions. If thwarted, this can trigger a swift shift into 'attack mode,' where manipulative and abusive behaviors are more pronounced.

Devaluation Phase

The devaluation phase can be particularly dangerous, as it involves a more explosive and intense form of behavior. In this state, the loss of control associated with alcohol can lead to more physical violence or verbal abuse. The individual's true, sinister nature often emerges more vividly, revealing the 'true beast.' Manipulation and control become even more pronounced, often leading to devastating consequences for those involved.

Personal Observations with a Narcissist

Once, I had the opportunity to observe a suspected narcissist in a state of intoxication, while maintaining sobriety myself. During this observation, I noticed remarkable changes in their behavior. They became vicious, demeaning, bitter, and grandiose, exhibiting a deep sense of control and power that was intoxicating to them. She laughed at the perceived idiocy of others and reveled in her success, demonstrating a deep pleasure in manipulating and controlling others.

For me, this experience was shockingly clear. The sheer glee, high, and happiness she derived from manipulating others were alarming. It was evident that the pain and humiliation she caused to others gave her deep satisfaction. This reveals a deeply sick and twisted personality, one that uses others for their own gain.

The realization that many have remained in relationships or friendships with such individuals for years, only to learn their true nature later, is disheartening. It underscores the importance of early detection and intervention.

Alcohol can be a powerful reveal of a narcissist's true nature, making it crucial to observe these changes in behavior. If you find yourself in a situation where you believe you are dealing with a narcissist, it's important to stay alert and possibly record the behaviors for future reference or professional consultation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while not all narcissists will reveal their true selves when drunk, many do experience a significant shift in behavior. This shift can range from increased grandiosity and emotional volatility to a complete breakdown of their facade, revealing the underlying manipulation and control over others. Understanding these behaviors can help individuals navigate relationships and control slippery social dynamics.