Last updated on December 18th, 2024 at 04:08 am
- 1. Understanding Covert Narcissism
- 1.1 Differences Between Overt and Covert Narcissism
- 1.2 Hidden Symptoms and Signs of Covert Narcissism
- 2. Identifying the Covert Narcissist
- 2.1 Key Behaviors to Watch for in Different Relationships
- 2.2 Subtle Manipulation Techniques Employed by Covert Narcissists
- 3. Emotional Repercussions of Engaging with a Covert Narcissist
- 3.1 Psychological Toll on Victims
- 3.2 Long-Term Effects on Mental Health
- 4. Impact on Workplace Dynamics
- 4.1 Covert Narcissists’ Influence on Office Morale
- 4.2 Psychological Impact on Employees
- 5. Coping Strategies for Dealing with Covert Narcissists
- 5.1 Setting Healthy Boundaries and Asserting Self-Respect
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is A Closet Narcissist And How Do They Differ From Overt Narcissists?
- How Can You Identify The Signs Of A Closet Narcissist In A Relationship?
- What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Being In A Relationship With A Closet Narcissist?
- How Do Closet Narcissists Manipulate Others In The Workplace?
- What Are The Key Differences Between Vulnerable Narcissistic Personality Disorder And Other Types Of Narcissism?
- How Can Someone Protect Themselves From Covert Narcissistic Abuse In A Relationship?
- What Are The Common Traits Of A Hidden Narcissist Spouse?
- How Does Covert Narcissism Affect Family Dynamics?
- What Are The Most Effective Coping Strategies For Dealing With A Closet Narcissist?
- How Can Mental Health Professionals Accurately Diagnose Covert Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
- What Are The Roots Of Covert Narcissism In Childhood Development?
- How Do Closet Narcissists Typically React To Therapy Or Treatment?
- What Are The Key Differences Between Covert Narcissism And Social Anxiety?
- How Can Employers Identify And Manage Covert Narcissists In The Workplace?
- What Are The Unique Challenges Of Co-Parenting With A Closet Narcissist?
- How Does Covert Narcissism Manifest Differently In Men Versus Women?
Have you ever felt like something was off in a relationship, but couldn’t quite put your finger on it? Imagine walking on eggshells, constantly questioning your own reality, and feeling drained after every interaction. If this strikes a chord, you might be dealing with a closet narcissist – the silent predator lurking in plain sight.
Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey into the shadows of human psychology. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill narcissism; it’s a cunning, covert version that can leave you feeling confused, anxious, and utterly alone.
In this eye-opening exposé, we’ll peel back the layers of the closet narcissist’s carefully crafted facade. You’ll discover the telltale signs that have been hiding right under your nose, and learn how to protect yourself from their insidious manipulation.
Whether you’re suspecting a partner, friend, or family member, this blog post will arm you with the knowledge to reclaim your power and break free from their emotional stranglehold. Don’t let another day slip by in the fog of self-doubt – your sanity and well-being depend on understanding this hidden danger.
1. Understanding Covert Narcissism
1.1 Differences Between Overt and Covert Narcissism
Covert narcissism, often referred to as “closet narcissism,” is a subtle yet dangerous form of narcissistic personality disorder. Unlike their overt counterparts, covert narcissists operate in the shadows, making them harder to identify. While overt narcissists demand attention and praise, covert narcissists employ more subtle tactics to fulfill their need for admiration.
-By Som Dutt from https://embraceinnerchaos.com
One key difference lies in their outward behavior. Overt narcissists are often charismatic and boastful, while covert narcissists may appear shy or self-deprecating. This false modesty masks their deep-seated sense of superiority and entitlement. Covert narcissists are masters of manipulation, using guilt and passive-aggression to control others.
Another distinction is in their reaction to criticism. Overt narcissists may respond with anger or aggression, while covert narcissists often play the victim. They might withdraw, sulk, or engage in silent treatment to punish those who dare to challenge them. This behavior can be incredibly confusing and emotionally draining for their targets.
Covert narcissists are also more prone to envy and resentment. They may secretly seethe with jealousy when others succeed, while outwardly offering congratulations. This two-faced nature makes them particularly dangerous in close relationships, as their true feelings are often hidden behind a mask of support and care.
1.2 Hidden Symptoms and Signs of Covert Narcissism
Recognizing the signs of covert narcissism can be challenging, but it’s crucial for protecting yourself from their manipulation. One telltale sign is their constant need for validation, albeit in a more subtle way than overt narcissists. They might fish for compliments or downplay their achievements, expecting others to contradict them and offer praise.
Covert narcissists often exhibit passive-aggressive behavior. They may use sarcasm, backhanded compliments, or “jokes” that are actually thinly veiled insults. This allows them to maintain their facade of innocence while still inflicting emotional harm on others. Pay attention to how you feel after interacting with them – confusion, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion are common responses.
Another hidden symptom is their tendency to play the martyr. Covert narcissists may constantly complain about their problems or how unfairly they’re treated, seeking sympathy and attention. They excel at turning the tables, making themselves the victim in any situation, even when they’re the ones causing harm.
Covert narcissists also struggle with empathy, though they may be skilled at faking it when it serves their purposes. They might seem caring and attentive, but their support often comes with strings attached. They keep score of their “good deeds” and expect reciprocation, often becoming resentful if their expectations aren’t met.
2. Identifying the Covert Narcissist
2.1 Key Behaviors to Watch for in Different Relationships
In romantic relationships, covert narcissists often employ a tactic known as “love bombing” initially. They shower their partner with affection and attention, creating an intense emotional bond. However, this behavior is typically short-lived and gives way to subtle forms of emotional abuse and control.
Covert narcissists in romantic partnerships may use guilt as a weapon. They might accuse their partner of being selfish or uncaring when their demands aren’t met. This manipulation can lead to a cycle of emotional abuse where the victim constantly tries to prove their love and commitment.
In friendships, covert narcissists often play the role of the perpetual victim. They may constantly seek support and sympathy for their problems while offering little in return. These friendships tend to be one-sided, with the narcissist always taking center stage. They might also engage in subtle forms of competition, trying to one-up their friends or diminish their achievements.
Family dynamics can be particularly complex when a covert narcissist is involved. They might play siblings against each other, seeking to be the “favorite” child. As parents, they may use their children as extensions of themselves, living vicariously through their achievements while withholding genuine emotional support.
2.2 Subtle Manipulation Techniques Employed by Covert Narcissists
Covert narcissists are masters of subtle manipulation. One common technique is gaslighting, where they deny or distort reality to make their victim question their own perceptions. They might say things like, “That never happened” or “You’re too sensitive” to invalidate others’ feelings and experiences.
Another manipulative tactic is the use of silent treatment. Covert narcissists may withdraw emotionally or physically when they don’t get their way, leaving their victim feeling confused and desperate for reconciliation. This creates a power imbalance where the victim is constantly trying to appease the narcissist to avoid further punishment.
Covert narcissists also excel at playing the victim. They may twist situations to make themselves appear wronged, even when they’re the ones causing harm. This manipulation tactic often leaves others feeling guilty and scrambling to make amends for perceived slights.
Guilt-tripping is another favorite tool of the covert narcissist. They might say things like, “After all I’ve done for you…” or “If you really cared about me, you would…” to manipulate others into meeting their demands. This emotional blackmail can be incredibly effective, especially in close relationships.
3. Emotional Repercussions of Engaging with a Covert Narcissist
3.1 Psychological Toll on Victims
Engaging with a covert narcissist can have severe psychological consequences. Victims often experience a gradual erosion of their self-esteem and confidence. The constant subtle put-downs, criticism, and manipulation can lead to feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt.
Anxiety is another common psychological effect. Victims may feel like they’re constantly walking on eggshells, never knowing what might trigger the narcissist’s displeasure. This state of hypervigilance can be exhausting and lead to physical symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, and digestive issues.
-By Som Dutt from https://embraceinnerchaos.com
Depression is also a frequent outcome of prolonged exposure to covert narcissism. The emotional roller coaster of trying to please an unappeasable person can leave victims feeling hopeless and drained. They may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed and struggle to maintain other relationships.
Victims of covert narcissists often experience cognitive dissonance. They may struggle to reconcile the narcissist’s caring facade with their harmful actions. This internal conflict can lead to confusion, self-blame, and difficulty trusting their own judgment.
3.2 Long-Term Effects on Mental Health
The long-term effects of engaging with a covert narcissist can be devastating. Many victims develop complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional dysregulation. This condition can persist long after the relationship with the narcissist has ended.
Trust issues are another common long-term effect. After being manipulated and gaslighted, victims may find it difficult to trust others or even themselves. This can lead to isolation and difficulty forming healthy relationships in the future.
Covert narcissists often leave their victims emotionally drained, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as “emotional vampirism.” This constant emotional depletion can lead to burnout and a loss of sense of self. Victims may struggle to identify their own needs and desires after years of catering to the narcissist.
In some cases, victims may develop codependent tendencies. They become accustomed to putting the narcissist’s needs before their own and may struggle to break this pattern in future relationships. This can perpetuate a cycle of unhealthy relationships if not addressed through therapy or self-work.
4. Impact on Workplace Dynamics
4.1 Covert Narcissists’ Influence on Office Morale
Covert narcissists can wreak havoc on workplace dynamics. Their subtle manipulation and passive-aggressive behavior can create a toxic environment that affects the entire team. They may spread gossip or plant seeds of doubt about colleagues, undermining trust and collaboration.
These individuals often excel at impression management with superiors while treating subordinates poorly. This two-faced behavior can create confusion and resentment among team members. Coworkers may feel frustrated by the discrepancy between the narcissist’s public persona and their behind-the-scenes behavior.
Covert narcissists in leadership positions can be particularly damaging to office morale. They may take credit for others’ work while deflecting blame for failures. This behavior can lead to a culture of mistrust and competition rather than cooperation and mutual support.
The constant need for validation exhibited by covert narcissists can also drain team energy. Colleagues may feel pressured to constantly reassure or praise the narcissist, taking time and focus away from actual work tasks. This can lead to resentment and decreased productivity across the team.
4.2 Psychological Impact on Employees
Working alongside a covert narcissist can have serious psychological consequences for employees. Many experience increased stress and anxiety, constantly worrying about potential criticism or manipulation. This heightened state of alertness can lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction.
-By Som Dutt from https://embraceinnerchaos.com
Employees may also struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome when dealing with a covert narcissist colleague or supervisor. The narcissist’s subtle put-downs and backhanded compliments can erode confidence over time, making individuals question their abilities and worth.
In some cases, employees may develop symptoms of depression due to the hostile work environment created by a covert narcissist. They might feel trapped, especially if leaving the job isn’t a viable option. This sense of helplessness can spill over into their personal lives, affecting overall well-being.
The gaslighting often employed by covert narcissists can lead to cognitive dissonance in the workplace. Employees may struggle to reconcile the narcissist’s public image with their personal experiences, leading to confusion and self-doubt. This internal conflict can be mentally exhausting and impact job performance.
5. Coping Strategies for Dealing with Covert Narcissists
5.1 Setting Healthy Boundaries and Asserting Self-Respect
Establishing and maintaining firm boundaries is crucial when dealing with a covert narcissist. Be clear about what behavior you will and won’t tolerate. Remember, you have the right to set limits on how others treat you, even if the narcissist tries to make you feel guilty for doing so.
Practice assertiveness in your communication. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and needs without attacking the narcissist. For example, say “I feel disrespected when you make sarcastic comments” instead of “You’re always so rude.” This approach is less likely to trigger defensive reactions.
Learn to say no without feeling guilty. Covert narcissists often try to push boundaries and take advantage of others’ kindness. Politely but firmly declining their unreasonable requests is an important step in maintaining your self-respect and mental health.
Remember that you’re not responsible for managing the narcissist’s emotions. They may try to make you feel guilty or responsible for their happiness, but it’s important to recognize this as a manipulation tactic. Focus on your own well-being and emotional stability.
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Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Closet Narcissist And How Do They Differ From Overt Narcissists?
A closet narcissist, also known as a covert narcissist, exhibits narcissistic traits in a more subtle and less obvious manner compared to overt narcissists. According to Psychology Today, closet narcissists share core traits with overt narcissists, such as a grandiose sense of self-importance and a need for admiration, but express these traits differently. While overt narcissists are often loud and attention-seeking, closet narcissists tend to be more introverted, self-effacing, and sensitive to criticism.
Closet narcissists may appear shy or modest on the surface, but internally harbor feelings of superiority and entitlement. This covert presentation can make them harder to identify, often flying under the radar in social situations and relationships. Their subtle nature can make them a hidden danger in plain sight, potentially causing significant harm to those around them without being easily recognized.
How Can You Identify The Signs Of A Closet Narcissist In A Relationship?
Identifying a closet narcissist in a relationship can be challenging due to their subtle manipulation tactics. Healthline suggests looking for signs such as passive-aggressive behavior, a tendency to play the victim, and a constant need for validation and admiration, albeit in a less obvious way than overt narcissists. They may use subtle put-downs or backhanded compliments to undermine their partner’s self-esteem.
Closet narcissists often struggle with empathy and may react poorly to their partner’s successes or needs. They might exhibit a pattern of withdrawing emotionally when they don’t get their way or feel threatened. Pay attention to how they handle criticism or disagreements; a closet narcissist may respond with sulking, silent treatment, or by subtly shifting blame onto others.
What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Being In A Relationship With A Closet Narcissist?
Being in a long-term relationship with a closet narcissist can have significant psychological impacts on their partner. The National Domestic Violence Hotline reports that victims often experience symptoms similar to those of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty trusting others. The subtle and persistent nature of covert narcissistic abuse can lead to a gradual erosion of the victim’s sense of self and reality.
Partners of closet narcissists may find themselves constantly doubting their own perceptions and feelings, a result of prolonged gaslighting and emotional manipulation. Over time, this can lead to a loss of identity, chronic stress, and even physical health problems. Recovery from such a relationship often requires professional help and a significant period of healing and self-rediscovery.
How Do Closet Narcissists Manipulate Others In The Workplace?
Closet narcissists can be particularly adept at manipulating others in the workplace due to their subtle tactics. Forbes explains that they may engage in behaviors such as taking credit for others’ work, subtly undermining colleagues, or playing the victim when faced with challenges or criticism. They might use their apparent modesty or vulnerability to gain sympathy and support from coworkers and superiors.
Closet narcissists in the workplace often excel at impression management, presenting themselves as dedicated and hardworking while secretly harboring feelings of superiority. They may create drama or conflicts behind the scenes, manipulating situations to their advantage while maintaining a facade of innocence. This behavior can lead to a toxic work environment, decreased team morale, and reduced productivity.
What Are The Key Differences Between Vulnerable Narcissistic Personality Disorder And Other Types Of Narcissism?
Vulnerable Narcissistic Personality Disorder, often associated with closet narcissism, differs from other types of narcissism in several key ways. According to Verywell Mind, vulnerable narcissists tend to be more introverted, sensitive to criticism, and prone to feelings of shame and inadequacy compared to their grandiose counterparts. While all narcissists share core traits like a lack of empathy and a need for admiration, vulnerable narcissists often present as insecure, anxious, and self-doubting.
Unlike overt narcissists who openly assert their superiority, vulnerable narcissists often feel entitled to special treatment but express this through passive-aggressive behaviors or by playing the victim. Their narcissism is more internalized, making it harder to detect and potentially more insidious in its impact on relationships. They may use self-deprecation as a tool to fish for compliments or validation, further complicating their presentation and making them difficult to identify.
How Can Someone Protect Themselves From Covert Narcissistic Abuse In A Relationship?
Protecting oneself from covert narcissistic abuse requires awareness, strong boundaries, and often professional support. PsychCentral advises that the first step is to educate yourself about the signs of covert narcissism and trust your instincts when something feels off in the relationship. Establishing and maintaining firm boundaries is crucial; clearly communicate your limits and stick to them, even in the face of manipulation or guilt-tripping.
It’s important to build a support network of friends, family, or a therapist who can provide an outside perspective and emotional support. Practice self-care and work on building your self-esteem, as this can make you less vulnerable to narcissistic manipulation. Document incidents of abuse or gaslighting to maintain your sense of reality. In severe cases, consider seeking professional help or leaving the relationship entirely to protect your mental health and well-being.
What Are The Common Traits Of A Hidden Narcissist Spouse?
A hidden narcissist spouse often exhibits a range of subtle but damaging behaviors. Psychology Today notes that they may appear outwardly supportive or even self-deprecating, but their actions reveal their true narcissistic nature. Common traits include a constant need for admiration and validation, often expressed through fishing for compliments or playing the victim. They may be hypersensitive to criticism, reacting with sulking or passive-aggressive behavior when they don’t receive the praise they feel they deserve.
Hidden narcissist spouses often struggle with empathy, showing little genuine interest in their partner’s feelings or experiences. They might engage in subtle put-downs or backhanded compliments to undermine their spouse’s confidence. Financial control, emotional withholding, and gaslighting are also common tactics used by hidden narcissist spouses to maintain power in the relationship.
How Does Covert Narcissism Affect Family Dynamics?
Covert narcissism can have a profound and often destructive impact on family dynamics. Psych Central explains that in families with a covert narcissist parent, children may grow up in an environment of emotional neglect and subtle manipulation. The narcissist parent might use guilt, shame, or emotional withdrawal to control family members. This can lead to a dysfunctional family system where other family members, including the spouse and children, adapt their behaviors to cater to the narcissist’s needs and moods.
Children of covert narcissists may develop low self-esteem, anxiety, or their own narcissistic traits as coping mechanisms. The non-narcissistic parent might become an enabler or develop codependent behaviors. Family members often struggle with setting healthy boundaries and may have difficulty forming healthy relationships outside the family unit due to the distorted relational patterns they’ve internalized.
What Are The Most Effective Coping Strategies For Dealing With A Closet Narcissist?
Dealing with a closet narcissist requires a combination of self-protection strategies and emotional management techniques. Healthline suggests that one of the most effective strategies is to set and maintain firm boundaries. This involves clearly communicating your limits and consistently enforcing them, even in the face of manipulation or guilt-tripping. Practicing emotional detachment can also be helpful; this doesn’t mean not caring, but rather not allowing the narcissist’s behavior to dictate your emotional state.
Building a strong support network of friends, family, or a therapist can provide crucial emotional support and reality checks. It’s important to work on building your self-esteem and self-worth independent of the narcissist’s validation. Mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques can help manage the emotional toll of dealing with a closet narcissist. In some cases, limiting contact or even ending the relationship may be necessary for your mental health and well-being.
How Can Mental Health Professionals Accurately Diagnose Covert Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Accurately diagnosing Covert Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) presents unique challenges for mental health professionals due to its subtle presentation. According to The American Journal of Psychiatry, diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive psychological evaluation, including in-depth interviews and possibly psychometric tests. Professionals look for patterns of behavior and thought that align with the DSM-5 criteria for NPD, while also considering the specific manifestations of covert narcissism.
Clinicians must differentiate covert NPD from other conditions with overlapping symptoms, such as borderline personality disorder or depression. The process often requires multiple sessions to observe consistent patterns, as covert narcissists may initially present as humble or self-deprecating. Collateral information from family members or close associates can also be valuable in making an accurate diagnosis.
What Are The Roots Of Covert Narcissism In Childhood Development?
The roots of covert narcissism often trace back to childhood experiences and developmental factors. The Journal of Personality Disorders suggests that covert narcissism may develop as a coping mechanism in response to childhood trauma, neglect, or inconsistent parenting. Children who experience excessive criticism or who are made to feel that their worth is contingent on their achievements may develop covert narcissistic traits. Unlike overt narcissism, which may stem from excessive praise and indulgence, covert narcissism often develops in children who feel chronically unseen or undervalued.
These children may internalize a sense of superiority as a defense against feelings of inadequacy. Attachment issues with primary caregivers can also play a role, leading to difficulties with empathy and emotional regulation in adulthood. The development of covert narcissism is often a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and early relational experiences that shape the child’s developing sense of self and others.
How Do Closet Narcissists Typically React To Therapy Or Treatment?
Closet narcissists often have a complex and challenging relationship with therapy or treatment. The Journal of Clinical Psychology reports that many covert narcissists initially seek therapy due to symptoms of depression, anxiety, or relationship problems, rather than recognizing their narcissistic traits. They may present as vulnerable or self-deprecating, which can initially mask their underlying narcissism. In therapy, closet narcissists might struggle with genuine self-reflection and may use sessions to seek validation rather than engage in meaningful change.
They often have difficulty accepting responsibility for their behaviors and may blame others for their problems. Resistance to treatment is common, especially when confronted with their narcissistic traits. However, with skilled therapists who can navigate their defenses and build a strong therapeutic alliance, some closet narcissists can make progress. Treatment typically focuses on developing empathy, improving interpersonal skills, and addressing underlying insecurities and shame.
What Are The Key Differences Between Covert Narcissism And Social Anxiety?
While covert narcissism and social anxiety may present with some similar outward behaviors, they are fundamentally different conditions. Verywell Mind explains that both may involve social withdrawal and apparent shyness, but the underlying motivations differ significantly. Individuals with social anxiety experience genuine fear and distress in social situations, often due to a fear of judgment or embarrassment. In contrast, covert narcissists may avoid social situations due to a fear of not receiving the admiration they feel they deserve or to avoid situations where their perceived superiority might be challenged.
While socially anxious individuals often have low self-esteem, covert narcissists maintain an inflated sense of self-importance beneath their modest exterior. Additionally, people with social anxiety typically desire connection with others but struggle due to their anxiety, whereas covert narcissists may have little genuine interest in others beyond how they can serve their needs for admiration and validation.
How Can Employers Identify And Manage Covert Narcissists In The Workplace?
Identifying and managing covert narcissists in the workplace requires awareness and strategic approaches from employers. Harvard Business Review suggests that employers should look for subtle signs such as employees who consistently undermine colleagues, take credit for others’ work, or react poorly to feedback while maintaining a facade of humility. To manage these individuals, clear communication and well-defined expectations are crucial. Employers should document performance issues objectively and provide feedback in a direct, fact-based manner.
It’s important to create a workplace culture that values teamwork and collaboration, which can help mitigate the impact of narcissistic behaviors. Implementing 360-degree feedback systems can provide a more comprehensive view of an employee’s performance and interpersonal skills. In severe cases, where a covert narcissist’s behavior is significantly impacting team morale or productivity, employers may need to consider more serious interventions, including reassignment or termination, always in compliance with labor laws and company policies.
What Are The Unique Challenges Of Co-Parenting With A Closet Narcissist?
Co-parenting with a closet narcissist presents unique and often complex challenges. Psychology Today notes that closet narcissists may use subtle manipulation tactics to undermine the other parent’s authority or relationship with the children. They might engage in passive-aggressive behaviors, such as consistently being late for custody exchanges or subtly criticizing the other parent to the children. Closet narcissists may also use the children as a means to gain attention or sympathy, potentially leading to unhealthy emotional enmeshment.
Co-parents often struggle with maintaining clear communication and consistent boundaries, as the closet narcissist may alternate between seeming cooperative and engaging in covert sabotage. It’s crucial for the co-parent to document all interactions, stick to court-ordered agreements, and prioritize the children’s well-being over engaging in power struggles. Seeking support from a therapist or co-parenting counselor can be beneficial in navigating these challenges and developing effective strategies for communication and conflict resolution.
How Does Covert Narcissism Manifest Differently In Men Versus Women?
Covert narcissism can manifest differently in men and women, influenced by societal expectations and gender norms. The Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy suggests that while the core traits of covert narcissism remain the same across genders, the expression may vary. Covert narcissistic men might be more likely to express their narcissism through passive-aggressive behaviors, emotional withdrawal, or by playing the role of the misunderstood or unappreciated partner. They may struggle with feelings of inadequacy related to societal expectations of masculinity.
Women with covert narcissism, on the other hand, might be more prone to using their perceived victimhood or sensitivity as a means of manipulation. They may engage more in relational aggression, such as subtle social exclusion or gossip. Both genders may use self-deprecation as a tool for gaining attention and sympathy, but the specific areas of focus (e.g., appearance, career success) might differ based on gender-specific societal pressures.
