Go offline with the Player FM app!
124. Narcissism Explained: What to Watch For in Relationships
Manage episode 509304506 series 2947834
A listener asks: “What exactly is narcissism and how can I tell if I’m dating someone with narcissistic traits?” In this episode, Gemma breaks narcissism down into plain English. You’ll learn why it’s best understood as a personality style on a spectrum, how narcissistic coping modes show up through self-absorption and poor tolerance for your subjectivity and the concrete signs to look for in the early dating stage. We also cover boundaries, reciprocity and practical ways to tune into - and trust - your internal radar.
What you’ll learn
- Narcissism 101: spectrum vs diagnosed NPD; why “narcissistic modes” matter
- The central feature: self-absorption (and why it erodes empathy & reciprocity)
- Early dating indicators: shallow interest, interrupting, image obsession, contempt/arrogance, running down exes, boundary-pushing
- Reality-checks for boundaries & differences: how they handle “no,” cancellations and disagreement
- Why narcissistic dynamics chip away at self-worth and how to protect yours
- A calm process for getting to know someone across contexts (and why to go slow)
Try this - self-check prompts on a date
- Do I feel seen, heard and not rushed?
- Can I say “no” or disagree without payback or sulking?
- Is attention reciprocal over time (not just in bursts)?
- Do their words match behaviour when it costs them something?
Resources & links
- Download: Dating With Insight - After-Date Reflection Guide (free)
- Join the Love Wisely priority list for the next round
- Ask Gemma a question for the podcast: [email protected]
- If this helped, please leave a review on your podcast app - it really supports the show.
🎁 Free Guide: Dating With Insight 👉 Download your free guide here
✨ Connect with Me
📷 Instagram: @drgemmagladstone
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: drgemmagladstone.com
🩷 Love Wisely Join the priority list for next group in 2026!
🌻 Support the Podcast
Love the show? Help us keep going with a monthly contribution: Support here
🚩 The Red Flag Project
Get instant access to the online course: Access now
134 episodes
Manage episode 509304506 series 2947834
A listener asks: “What exactly is narcissism and how can I tell if I’m dating someone with narcissistic traits?” In this episode, Gemma breaks narcissism down into plain English. You’ll learn why it’s best understood as a personality style on a spectrum, how narcissistic coping modes show up through self-absorption and poor tolerance for your subjectivity and the concrete signs to look for in the early dating stage. We also cover boundaries, reciprocity and practical ways to tune into - and trust - your internal radar.
What you’ll learn
- Narcissism 101: spectrum vs diagnosed NPD; why “narcissistic modes” matter
- The central feature: self-absorption (and why it erodes empathy & reciprocity)
- Early dating indicators: shallow interest, interrupting, image obsession, contempt/arrogance, running down exes, boundary-pushing
- Reality-checks for boundaries & differences: how they handle “no,” cancellations and disagreement
- Why narcissistic dynamics chip away at self-worth and how to protect yours
- A calm process for getting to know someone across contexts (and why to go slow)
Try this - self-check prompts on a date
- Do I feel seen, heard and not rushed?
- Can I say “no” or disagree without payback or sulking?
- Is attention reciprocal over time (not just in bursts)?
- Do their words match behaviour when it costs them something?
Resources & links
- Download: Dating With Insight - After-Date Reflection Guide (free)
- Join the Love Wisely priority list for the next round
- Ask Gemma a question for the podcast: [email protected]
- If this helped, please leave a review on your podcast app - it really supports the show.
🎁 Free Guide: Dating With Insight 👉 Download your free guide here
✨ Connect with Me
📷 Instagram: @drgemmagladstone
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: drgemmagladstone.com
🩷 Love Wisely Join the priority list for next group in 2026!
🌻 Support the Podcast
Love the show? Help us keep going with a monthly contribution: Support here
🚩 The Red Flag Project
Get instant access to the online course: Access now
134 episodes
All episodes
×Welcome to Player FM!
Player FM is scanning the web for high-quality podcasts for you to enjoy right now. It's the best podcast app and works on Android, iPhone, and the web. Signup to sync subscriptions across devices.