Narcissists have a way of dragging good people down to their level, and they do it strategically. One of their favorite tactics is provocation, where they needle, insult, or manipulate until they get a reaction. Once you react—whether by defending yourself, standing up for the truth, or even just showing frustration—they flip the script. Suddenly, you're the “abuser”, or even a “narcissist” which is also projection of their own traits. This is classic DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender). They push and push until you push back, then they play the victim and accuse you of being the aggressor. And if you refuse to engage, they’ll paint you as cold, uncaring, or even “narcissistic” for not putting up with their abuse. It’s a no-win game designed to make you question yourself.