Fake Love and Flying Monkeys

Why Covert Narcissists Use Triangulation to Hurt You

Nova Gibson Season 2 Episode 39

Ever felt like you were suddenly competing for someone’s love, attention, or approval—without knowing why? You might have been caught in the toxic game of covert narcissistic triangulation.

In this eye-opening episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, I dive deep into one of the most painful and manipulative tactics narcissists use: triangulation. Whether it’s with an ex, a friend, a sibling, or even your own child, covert narcissists thrive on creating emotional chaos by pulling in third parties to control, confuse, and hurt you.

I’ll break down what triangulation really looks like, why narcissists do it, how it affects your mental health and self-esteem, and—most importantly—how to recognise it and shut it down. From silent treatment and comparisons to backhanded praise and fake alliances, this episode exposes how narcissists use others to punish you, keep you off balance, and maintain power.

You’ll hear real-life examples from my counselling practice and learn practical tools to detach from the drama, protect your peace, and heal from the emotional damage this cruel tactic leaves behind.

This episode is for you if:

You’ve been compared to others constantly

You feel like someone’s always being used against you

The narcissist in your life brings up their ex way too often

You’ve been turned against someone you once trusted

You're stuck in a toxic triangle that leaves you drained and confused


"The narcissist doesn’t want peace, they want power—and triangulation gives them both."

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Thank you for listening!
Please remember the information in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy is general and strictly the opinions of the host.

Nova xx

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