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When Covert Turns Overt: 13 Common Triggers That Cause The Fragile Narcissist to Break Cover.
Narcissists typically express both Covert and Overt behaviours, according to the DSM-5 criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder. So what causes a narcissist to switch from covert to overt and back again?
Although there is no official diagnostic term for both, the diagnostic criteria include behaviours such as exaggerated self-importance, a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love, a sense of entitlement, and a lack of empathy. These traits can be expressed overtly, through grandiose behaviours and a need for attention and admiration, or covertly, through passive-aggressive behaviours, victimisation, or manipulation.
A fragile narcissist, exhibiting covert tendencies, can be difficult to detect early on in a relationship. They may come across as wounded or have a sob story that they repeatedly share with everyone who will listen. They often work in jobs where they are seen as pillars of the community and serving humanity, such as charities, emergency services, healthcare and local government. The narcissist can maintain their humble facade for a significant amount of time until they are triggered. At this point, they are likely to switch and begin exhibiting more overt characteristics.
