Why Do Narcissists Strive to Keep You Close?
Narcissists possess a remarkable ability to make others feel like the most important person in the world. However, this is often a carefully orchestrated illusion designed to serve their own needs.
Unlike most people, narcissists do not view relationships as mutual exchanges of love, respect, and compromise. Instead, they see relationships as sources of “supply”—emotional validation and admiration essential to their fragile self-worth and inflated ego. Without this external validation, they risk feeling empty, adrift, or even worthless.
When a narcissist pushes you away or engages in manipulative mind games, it often serves a counterintuitive purpose: to keep you engaged. They crave admiration and validation, often achieved by keeping you in a constant state of pursuit for their affection or approval. If you begin to pull away, they will likely resort to whatever means necessary to reel you back in, even if it involves emotional manipulation.
The Push-and-Pull Dynamic
In relationships with narcissists, the push-and-pull dynamic is a recurring theme. One moment, you bask in their adoration, feeling incredibly special; the next, they become distant or cold. This inconsistency isn’t accidental—it’s a calculated tactic to keep you emotionally off balance, ensuring your attention remains firmly focused on them.
This raises the question: What do narcissists truly want from you?
The answer lies in their need for two things: control and validation. These elements form the core of narcissistic behavior. Narcissists thrive on admiration and attention, engaging in elaborate strategies to secure a constant flow of validation.
What Is Narcissistic Supply?
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