The Silent Manipulators: How Narcissists Control Your Friend Group

Narcissists in Friend Groups: How to Spot and Avoid Manipulation Social media is full of stories about toxic relationships. One recent TikTok video by user M 🌹 (@beyondthebruise) has gone viral, highlighting the manipulative tactics narcissists use within friend groups. The video, uploaded on May 27th, 2025, has already garnered over 90,000 views and thousands of likes. The author, who identifies as a DV advocate, describes how narcissists initially appear as the "glue" of the group, charming and organized. "At first, they might be the life of the party, charming, magnetic, the leader," she explains. However, this is a facade. She details how they subtly create conflict, pitting friends against each other, and then position themselves as the innocent peacemaker. "They turn your group chat into a war zone," she says, "and then they act like the peacemaker." The video's popularity suggests many viewers relate to this experience. The video's success underscores the need for awareness about narcissistic manipulation in social circles. Recognizing these tactics is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships and avoiding toxic individuals.