Many people do not realize that narcissists are extremely empathic individuals whose behaviors are reflective of tactics they've adapted survive. Visualize an empath in your mind as a child; super sensitive, easily triggered/overwhelmed, feels the heights and depths of EVERYTHING in their immediate environment and beyond; both subtle and apparent. Then, imagine that highly empathetic child being VIOLATED beyond reason; being raised in a toxic environment with no emotional support, being abused, molested, shut down, manipulated, robbed and drained of their energy and extended little to no compassion or protection. It goes so far, that they eventually go into FULL defense mode for physical, mental and emotional survival. And what does that look like? ISOLATION AS A BOUNDARY. SELF-PRESERVATION FOR PROTECTION. BEING SELF-ABSORBED (PERFECTIONIST) TO EARN LOVE. EXCESSIVE CONCEIT TO MAKE UP FOR FEELINGS OF UNWORTHINESS. They were once vulnerable and all feeling and now they are numb, cold and disconnected not only from the world, but from themselves...ALL to stop the pain and silent suffering. These firm, HARSH, impenetrable and even manipulative boundaries are for EMOTIONAL survival. Being an all-feeling empath was too much. And what happens as they get older? They attract reflections of their childhood self (other empaths) and it is the "narcissist's" CHOICE to trust and open up so that they can heal (even if it's painful), OR be a coward and continue to be self-serving ONLY.