The Hidden Face of Avoidance: When Protection Turns Into Pushback
Avoidance hides behind control, criticism, or blame — not cruelty. Learn how this defense masks deeper emotions and how to meet it with compassion.
Keywords: avoidance, emotional defense, criticism, victim mindset, relationships, trauma response, emotional intelligence, therapy, self-protection, self-awareness
Understanding the Fear and Anxiety Triggered by Narcissism
Image by Talip Özer from Pixabay
Narcissistic colleagues are often skilled manipulators who hide their toxic behaviors behind a veneer of charm, expertise, or even community admiration. These individuals typically do not exhibit any emotion unless they want something from others, whether it's validation, control, or an advantage in a work-related situation. They use tactics like gaslighting—making others doubt their perceptions of reality—and deflecting accountability for their actions, which creates confusion and frustration.

