It is okay to mute, unfollow and ignore on social media.

The introduction of the internet has been a godsend for research, communication, and exploring new landscapes never thought possible. The printing press, Morse code, and telephones all gave way to what would become known as social networking. It takes moments to boot up a computer (or seconds for a smartphone) and instantaneously connect with friends and family all over the world. Not only can we share our thoughts and photos with anyone we choose, but we can determine exactly what side of us to share. The smoky mirrors of the internet are a perfect breeding ground for narcissists; not only can they place and keep themselves in the spotlight and gain instant attention and gratification, but it's also incredibly easy to fool other people into believing the charade.

Is it possible to identify a narcissist online, and how can we protect ourselves from these virtual, mental attacks? Extensive research into narcissism has found that there are varying grades of the disorder and some traits may be more pronounced than others. Although the core traits of narcissism are the same (inflated sense of ego, lack of empathy, deep jealously of others, arrogance), individuals with grandiose narcissism are more callous and extraverted than their vulnerable counterparts. Those with vulnerable narcissism are far more neurotic and introverted. Regardless of the type of narcissism an individual possesses, the crux of the matter is the painful and hidden lack of self-esteem.

It can be theorized that a narcissist acts out to improve, hide, or erase this self-hatred; unfortunately, in the process of doing so, they tend to deeply hurt and ostracize the people closest to them. Narcissists in general are hypersensitive and vulnerable to rejection. They have a tendency to react aggressively in order to protect his or her inner fragility and maintain the false exterior of a boastful, enviable person. The shadows of the internet provide an exceptional platform for narcissists to create, maintain, and exploit their persona. Social media - and the communication platforms in particular - are incredibly persuasive and influential. Identifying a narcissist online is not as easy as it sounds. Keep in mind that people can have traits of narcissism but not be considered a full-blown clinical narcissist. However, the core traits of egotism and non-empathy are consistent warning signs of a narcissistic individual. As a culture, we have become desensitized to mass communication. We...

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