12 Demeaning Things Narcissists Say

8. You’re nothing without me

Narcissists have a fragile sense of self and need constant admiration and attention. They may tell you that you’re nothing without them, that they made you who you are, or that you can’t survive on your own. They want to make you feel dependent and helpless so you stay attached and loyal to them.

How to respond:

Don’t let them control you. You have the right to be independent and self-reliant. You can say something like, “I’m not nothing without you. I’m everything I need. You’re being insecure and possessive, and I can live without you.”

9. You’re always wrong

Narcissists think they are always right and never admit their faults or mistakes. They may tell you that you’re always wrong, that you don’t know what you’re talking about, or that you should listen to them. They want to make you feel ignorant and inferior, so you defer to their authority and expertise.

How to respond:

Don’t let them undermine you. You have the right to have your own opinions and perspectives. You can say something like, “I’m not always wrong. I’m informed. You’re being stubborn and dogmatic, and I respect your point, but I can’t entirely agree with it.”