Why Narcissists Lie and Keep Secrets: Shame and the False Self- part 1 | Epi 128 episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 11, 2026 · 19 MIN

Why Narcissists Lie and Keep Secrets: Shame and the False Self- part 1 | Epi 128

from The Narcissism Decoder · host Dr. Anthony Mazzella

In this episode, we explore why secrecy in narcissism isn’t primarily about manipulation or control, but about survival. We look at how shame, fear of exposure, and the need to protect a fragile false self drive lying and concealment — and why the very strategies meant to prevent rejection end up sabotaging intimacy and connection.If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information.  Contact me Directly with observations, questions or comments:  [email protected] You can follow The Narcissism Decoder on: https://www.instagram.com/thenarcissism.decoder/ https://www.tiktok.com/@thenarcissismdecoder https://www.youtube.com/@thenarcissismdecoder  Dr. Mazzella’s personal website: drmazzella.comDr. Anthony Mazzella is a psychoanalyst and psychodynamic psychotherapist specializing in narcissism, personality disorders, and relational dynamics.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Feb 11, 2026

Embed this episode

In this episode, we explore why secrecy in narcissism isn’t primarily about manipulation or control, but about survival. We look at how shame, fear of exposure, and the need to protect a fragile false self drive lying and concealment — and why the very strategies meant to prevent rejection end up sabotaging intimacy and connection. If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed informatio...

Distinct summary based on available episode metadata or transcript content.

NOW PLAYING

Why Narcissists Lie and Keep Secrets: Shame and the False Self- part 1 | Epi 128

0:00 19:07

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of The Narcissism Decoder?

This episode is 19 minutes long.

When was this The Narcissism Decoder episode published?

This episode was published on February 11, 2026.

Can I download this The Narcissism Decoder episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!