You don’t have to just grin and bear it.

Experts in This Article

a licensed clinical professional counselor atSage Therapy.

Fortunately, there are ways to establish healthier dynamics.

person wearing a tan button down shirt on top of black and white striped shirt and red pants sitting on their coach in their living room talking on the phone and learning how to deal with a narcissistic parent

First, what is narcissism?

She adds that exhibiting minornarcissist personalitytraits now and then is normal.

However, narcissistic behavior taken to the extreme can lead to dysfunction.

Collage graphic of the best shoes for standing all day according to nurses, with the top pick being FIGS New Balance 3447 Zip shoes in gray, black, and white against a pink and orange background

a licensed clinical professional counselor atSage Therapy.

You may even notice the above behaviorslikepeople-pleasingtendencies oravoiding confrontationbleed into other areas and relationship dynamics in your life.

Heres Exactly How It Can Affect Your Poop

2.

Identify and set healthy boundaries

Setting clear boundaries is crucial when dealing with a narcissistic parent.

close up of person drinking a green smoothie that may cause their poop to be green

But first, you have to determine what boundaries make the most sense for you.

This may feel uncomfortable, as it requires going against the people-pleasing and non-confrontation you’ve built up.

Build a support system

Surrounding yourself with emotionally healthy individuals can help counteract the effects of a narcissistic parent.

alt

“Getting opportunities to witness and engage in healthy interpersonal patterns is incredibly important,” says Maranto.

However, identifying when these tactics are being played out can help you disengage.

This will all depend on how safe or unsafe you feel.

cup of matcha green tea sitting on a wooden ledge

a licensed clinical professional counselor atSage Therapy.

(More on this below.)

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

LOS ANGELES - FEB 10: Patrick Schwarzenegger at the White Lotus Season 3 Premiere at Paramount Studios on February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA

Woman drinking a protein meal replacement shake in the kitchen