Idealization Phase
- Stage 1: Seduction
- The narcissist uses excessive flattery, gifts, and promises to enchant the empath.
- Marked by overwhelming attention and affection, creating a false sense of security.
- Stage 2: Fantasy
- The narcissist crafts a fantasy world, casting the empath as the perfect partner, ignoring any flaws to sustain this illusion.
Devaluation Phase
- Stage 3: Devaluation
- The narcissist starts to focus on and criticize the empath’s flaws, beginning the cycle of devaluation.
- Stage 4: Manipulation
- Techniques like gaslighting, lying, and guilt-tripping are employed to control and confuse the empath.
- Stage 5: Demands
- The narcissist sets unrealistic expectations, demanding complete obedience from the empath.
- Stage 6: Defeat
- The empath’s self-esteem is destroyed through relentless abuse and criticism.
- Stage 7: Rebellion
- An attempt by the empath to stand up for themselves often leads to further aggression from the narcissist.
- Stage 8: Gaslighting
- The empath begins to doubt their own perceptions and sanity due to the narcissist’s denial of reality.
- Stage 9: Confusion
- The empath is torn between the image of a loving partner and the reality of a cruel abuser.
Trauma Trap Phase
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