One of the most destructive tactics employed by the **communal narcissist** is **emotional triangulation**. This manipulative technique involves creating conflict and division within groups by pitting individuals against each other. The narcissist uses triangulation to control others, **foster rivalry**, and **reinforce their position** as the emotional “center” of the group. By controlling the **emotional dynamics** between two or more people, they ensure that they are always the focal point, receiving **attention**, **admiration**, and **validation**.

"Emotional triangulation is a manipulative tactic designed to create conflict, force emotional alliances, and solidify the narcissist’s role as the ultimate authority in social dynamics."

The Tactics of Emotional Triangulation

• Playing People Off Each Other: The communal narcissist often **stirs conflict** by sharing personal information or complaints about one person with another, creating a rift between the two. By telling one person that the other has said something negative about them, they initiate a cycle of **misunderstanding** and **resentment**. The narcissist stays in the background, watching the conflict unfold, all while remaining in control of the situation.
• Manipulating Emotional Alliances: They may try to **divide** and **conquer** by making two individuals feel emotionally **dependent** on them. They encourage one person to feel **trusted** and **special** by confiding in them, while subtly implying that the other person is not as trustworthy or important. This creates **emotional competition** within the group, with the narcissist acting as the **mediator** and **source of validation**.
• Shifting the Focus to Themselves: The narcissist uses triangulation to shift the focus away from real issues or tensions in the group. When a conflict arises, they can subtly direct attention toward themselves, either by offering solutions that only benefit them or by making themselves the **emotional support** for everyone involved. In doing so, they avoid addressing the underlying issues and maintain their position as the **center of attention**.

The Harmful Impact of Emotional Triangulation

Emotional triangulation not only undermines trust between individuals, but it also creates a toxic environment of **distrust** and **resentment**. When people are manipulated into **competing for validation** or **falling out of harmony**, the narcissist strengthens their control. Over time, this can lead to long-lasting damage to **relationships**, creating an atmosphere of **emotional chaos** where no one can fully trust each other.

"By creating conflict and division, the communal narcissist guarantees that they remain **indispensable**, using others’ emotional distress as a tool to maintain their **power**."

Signs You Are a Victim of Emotional Triangulation

• Confusion and Mistrust: If you start to feel confused about your relationships within a group or begin **doubting** others’ intentions, emotional triangulation may be at play. The narcissist’s manipulation creates an atmosphere where **trust is broken** and **conflict** is inevitable.
• Feeling Stuck in the Middle: You may find yourself in the uncomfortable position of being asked to take sides, either by the narcissist or by others in the group. The narcissist might encourage you to defend them or speak ill of others, creating a dynamic where you feel trapped in the **emotional middle**.
• Frequent Unexplained Tensions: Emotional triangulation often leads to **unexplained tensions** or conflicts between people who were once close. If you notice sudden **breakdowns in communication** or **rifts** between previously harmonious relationships, the narcissist’s triangulation may be the cause.

How to Protect Yourself from Emotional Triangulation

• Recognize the Manipulation: The first step to protecting yourself from emotional triangulation is recognizing when it is happening. If you’re being told information about another person that causes you to feel **upset** or **divided**, question the **motives** behind sharing that information. Is it truly necessary, or is the narcissist trying to manipulate your feelings?
• Set Boundaries with the Narcissist: When you identify emotional triangulation, it’s important to **set clear boundaries** with the communal narcissist. Don’t allow them to pull you into their emotional drama. Politely but firmly express that you prefer not to be involved in conflicts between others and that you will not take sides.
• Encourage Direct Communication: If you sense that triangulation is occurring, encourage others to communicate directly with each other. Instead of engaging in conversations about what others have said or done, help foster a culture of **honest and transparent dialogue**. This eliminates the narcissist’s ability to control the narrative.

Emotional triangulation is a powerful manipulation tool used by the communal narcissist to create **division** and **control**. Recognizing and standing up to these tactics is the key to protecting your relationships from emotional **manipulation** and ensuring that your emotional well-being is not compromised.

Healthy relationships are based on trust, respect, and open communication—qualities that emotional triangulation destroys.