Cooperation as War

These sources explore the **distorted worldview** of narcissists, who perceive standard human cooperation as a **hostile power struggle**. Rather than viewing compromise as a mutual benefit, they interpret it as a **form of submission** and an attack on their personal autonomy. This mindset often originates from **early developmental trauma**, leading them to equate vulnerability with danger and defiance with **self-preservation**. Consequently, they utilize **tactical stonewalling** and preemptive discrediting to avoid the perceived humiliation of being influenced by others. By treating every interaction as a **zero-sum war**, narcissists gain a sense of false empowerment while ultimately sacrificing **genuine intimacy** and personal growth. This defensive behavior creates a **self-imposed isolation** where even the most well-intentioned gestures are mistaken for attempts at subjugation. #life #wellbeing #mentalhealth #spirituality #mindfulness #healing #narcissism