All these behaviors share a common goal: to devalue you and control the relationship by making you feel unworthy or unimportant. Narcissists understand that their attention—or lack thereof—can influence your mood, confidence, and even self-worth. They’re experts at using distance and disregard to create dependency, encouraging you to seek their approval to regain stability.
The Key Point
It’s worth noting that, paradoxically, when narcissists are ignoring you, they often remain close by. Rather than avoiding you completely, they tend to stay nearby, allowing them to watch and relish how their behaviors affect you. They may go out of their way to give attention to others in your presence, highlighting the divide between how they treat you versus others. It’s a calculated move that reinforces your feeling of being on the outside, which only amplifies their control.
Final Thoughts
If you recognize these behaviors, remember that you don’t have to play the narcissist’s game. Refuse to chase, refuse to allow their behavior to determine your worth, and refuse to bend to their control. Everyone deserves relationships that are mutual, respectful, and kind. If someone is repeatedly engaging in these patterns, the healthiest move may be to distance yourself and prioritize relationships that add value to your life.
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