The Injured Narcissist
The first reaction to such a loss is what we call a narcissistic injury. This is a deep wound or a damaging blow to the narcissist’s fragile ego. While anger may be one of the first emotions to arise, it is swiftly followed by humiliation and shame, as such a loss challenges their self-image, sense of superiority, and control. Although their shame is usually hidden from the world, the impact is still profound because this loss represents a clear sign of failure or rejection.
Abandonment Struggles
This rejection gives rise to feelings of abandonment, which is one of the narcissist’s greatest fears. Despite how they treat you, they still expect you to stay and never leave them. So, when the narcissist has been so dependent on you for their needs and wants, and then you leave, they not only feel abandoned but also feel it was unjustified.
The Desperate Narcissist
Panic eventually sets in, and the narcissist realizes they need to act quickly to restore their source of supply. In a desperate attempt, they will do and say anything to regain control over this person. Narcissists are not able to easily move on to another source of supply after losing a primary one. Their first course of action is typically to try and regain that primary source.
When that doesn’t happen, the narcissist may end up bouncing from one person to another, trying to find a replacement, but they are likely to fall and hit rock bottom if they can’t restore or replace the primary supply.
Closing Thoughts
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