What Narcissists do when you Leave them!

The response of a narcissist upon the termination of a relationship is dependent on the peculiarities inherent in both the individual and the contextual backdrop. In the event of such a departure, several commonly observed behavioural patterns emerge, providing insight into the narcissist’s reactions. Firstly, a pervasive technique, known as hoovering, materialises as a means to ensnare you once more within the confines of the relationship. Employing manipulative strategies, such as the insidious act of guilt-tripping, the act of showering affection, commonly referred to as love bombing, or the fabrication of false assurances, the narcissist endeavours to coax you back into the fold.

Secondly, anger and retribution take hold of the narcissist, engendering an intense fury when confronted with the sensation of rejection or abandonment. Verbal outbursts, and in more extreme cases, physical aggression may be unleashed. This wrath is accompanied by a series of calculated moves designed to discredit your character, propagate rumours, or orchestrate a character assassination, thus reclaiming their dominion over you.

Thirdly, the adept narcissist skilfully employs the “victim” card, effortlessly manoeuvring themselves into the role of the aggrieved party, thereby eliciting the compassion and attention of others. Cunningly cast as the forsaken and unjustly maligned, they seek validation and support from external sources.

Fourthly, the narcissist launches a full-fledged smear campaign against your personhood, mobilising an onslaught of calculated manoeuvres aimed at tarnishing your reputation, and subsequently instigating a dichotomy of perception among shared acquaintances. Deploying mendacious narratives, manipulating the truth, or contriving circumstances to cast you in an unfavourable light, they relentlessly endeavour to besmirch your character.

Fifthly, the narcissist may adopt a strategy of silence or withdrawal, wherein all channels of communication with you are abruptly severed. This calculated manoeuvre is executed with the intention of reestablishing control or imparting punishment for your decision to depart from their orbit.

Lastly, in certain instances, the narcissist may extend an olive branch in a bid to reconcile after a period of time has transpired. Proffering apologies, vowing to undertake transformation, or orchestrating grandiose gestures aimed at reclaiming your affections, they endeavour to ensnare you once more. However, prudence dictates vigilance, for their intentions may prove to be disingenuous, and once they regain their desired dominion, they may readily revert to their customary behavioural patterns.

It is of paramount importance to safeguard your own well-being and security upon extricating oneself from a narcissistic relationship. Establishing firm boundaries, securing support from confidantes, be they friends and family, or professional in nature. It is worth your while contemplating therapeutic intervention strategies to navigate the difficult aftermath of severing ties with a narcissist.