Empaths have long been recognized as individuals capable of sensing and understanding the emotions of others. However, in recent years, a new personality type has captured the interest of psychologists – dark empaths.
While they possess the same empathic abilities as regular empaths, dark empaths exhibit traits of manipulation and exploitation that are usually associated with the dark triad trio of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy.
In this article, we will delve into the seven key characteristics of dark empaths and explore why they are often seen as powerful yet often dangerous personalities. We will also discuss how to identify if someone in your life is a dark empath and how to interact with them.
Open Behavior
Dark empaths are highly sociable individuals who find it easy to connect with people. They are often charming, confident, and outgoing. They are skilled in presenting their best selves to the world, which makes it difficult for others to discern their true nature. However, their openness can quickly take a negative turn when they use it as a tool to exploit others.
Narcissistic Tendencies
Dark empaths can be highly self-centered and may lack empathy towards others. They seek validation, attention, and admiration from others and are willing to manipulate their way to get it. Narcissistic tendencies are often accompanied by an inflated sense of self-worth, and dark empaths see themselves as superior or more special than others.
Exceptional Talents
Dark empaths often possess exceptional talents that they use to achieve their goals. They can be highly skilled in areas such as art, music, or writing. Their talent gives them a platform to gain recognition, appreciation, and adoration from others, further fueling their narcissistic tendencies.
Desire for Power
Dark empaths want to be in control and have power over others. They have a sense of entitlement, and they believe they deserve to be in charge. The desire for power often drives them to engage in manipulative behavior to achieve their goals. They may form alliances with people they can use to further their agenda, or they may resort to coercion, blackmail, or other illicit means.
Emotional Manipulation Skills
Dark empaths excel at manipulating the emotions of others. They can sense the vulnerability of others and use it to exploit them. They may use flattery, false promises, or even threats to get what they want. They are adept at creating situations that make others feel indebted to them, giving the dark empath more leverage in the power dynamic.
Skill in Guilt Tripping People
Dark empaths are excellent at making others feel guilty. They can use a person’s weakness to their advantage and make them feel responsible for the dark empath’s troubles. They can also use guilt to obtain what they want or to keep others under their control.
Tendency to Relish in Malicious Humor
Dark empaths have a tendency to enjoy cruel or malicious humor. They may laugh at the expense of others, or they may find pleasure in watching others fail or suffer. They may also use humor to make others feel uncomfortable or to test their boundaries.
It’s important to note that not all extroverts exhibit behaviors associated with dark empaths, and each characteristic is just a common trait.
Overall, dark empaths represent a powerful personality that can either build or destroy easily. They’ve been present in society for centuries, often depicted in cinema and literature as mysterious or evil characters with a hidden heart.
If you know someone who resembles these characteristics, think twice before interacting with them. Be wary of their behavior, and set clear boundaries to protect yourself from being exploited or manipulated by them.
Remember, it’s essential to treat everyone with respect and kindness, even if you suspect they may be a dark empath. After all, everyone deserves to be treated fairly, even if they have flaws that may make them difficult to deal with.
