SEVEN THINGS NARCISSISTS SAY TO EXCUSE THEIR BEHAVIOR AND KEEP YOU UNDER CONTROL

By: Khalif Barkhadle,
Digital Journalist

Published On:15th April 2025

If you’ve been in a relationship with a narcissist or another Cluster B personality, I’m about to say a few things that I know you’ve heard before. Either you’ve heard these things verbatim, or you’ve heard some variation of them. So, in this article, we’re going to explore seven things narcissists say to excuse their bad behavior and keep you under control. If you’re ready, stay tuned!

These phrases may sound harmless at first, or even make you feel guilty or sorry for them. But if you look closer, you’ll notice a pattern. These excuses are not about making peace or healing the relationship—they are about power. Narcissists use these tactics to stay in control, to confuse you, and to keep you stuck in a cycle of emotional manipulation.

The more you understand what narcissists say and why they say it, the easier it becomes to see through their behavior. You’ll start to notice how they try to play the victim, avoid blame, and make you feel like you’re always the one who’s wrong.

Now, let’s get to those seven things narcissists say to excuse their bad behavior and keep you under control

#1: It’s all your fault.

The first thing you’re likely to hear from a narcissist is some variation of “It’s all your fault.” So, yes, I yelled. Yes, I raised my voice. Yes, I stonewalled you. Yes, I…