


It’s just not worth it.
Dr. Annie Zimmerman, a therapist who runs @your_pocket_therapist on TikTok, unveiled five signs to confirm you’re arguing with a narcissist.
“Having a healthy argument or healthy conflict with a narcissist is nearly impossible,” the therapist said. “You can’t logically reason with a narcissist because they tend to engage in one of these techniques.”
In the 41-second TikTok clip posted on Aug. 15, she lists all the behavioral traits narcissists display when in a confrontation.
“One of the best ways to recognize if someone is a narcissist or have narcissistic tendencies is to notice the way that they argue,” the video voice-over revealed.
Dr. Zimmerman unveils that denial is the first red flag you’re dealing with a narcissist.
“They tend to deny their part in anything. They aren’t able to take ownership for their side and any apology will be meaningless or superficial,” the therapist adds.
Another narcissist warning is if the person deflects the conversation. The therapist explains that the person will shift the conversation to you instead of themselves and pick at your insecurities: “Suddenly, you find yourself talking about your flaws when it’s you who raise an issue with them.”
She also points out that if the potential narcissist tries to play the victim, beware, because they’ll often get upset and make you think that you’ve done something wrong.
Some conflicts can become very heated when the egotist tries to gaslight the situation, making you think that you’re the problem for raising an issue, Dr. Zimmerman continues.
She concludes the video with the fifth red flag: when a person tries to “attack, becoming aggressive and defensive.”
The toxic mannerisms resonated with many TikTokers, who noticed parallels in their conflicts.
“Today I learned I’m a narcissist without realizing,” confessed one person. “I do all of these, but I don’t see myself as a bad person.”
“My mom is a narcissist and no one can see it except for me,” admitted another.

“My entire 33+ years of marriage. Finally getting free!!!” celebrated a divorcee.
Other people suggested additional red flags that could indicate someone is a narcissist.
“The silent treatment to punish you for not agreeing with them or giving them their way,” one person commented. “Or personal attacks or lie!!!”
Meanwhile, some people want to know how to take on the egomaniacs.
“Teach us HOW to argue with one,” demanded a watcher. “What are the 5 signs of a healthy argument?”
While they wait for Dr. Zimmerman’s response, a TikToker replied, sharing healthy ways to argue.
“Taking in what the other person is saying, actually trying to resolve it, always ready to say sorry for any shortcomings, wanting the best for both.”