Steps Narcissists Take When Enforcing Distance (Strategies for Coping with Such Behavior)
In a relationship with a narcissist, going no contact can be a challenging but necessary step. Here are some common tactics narcissists may use when someone decides to cut ties:
- Hoovering: Narcissists may attempt to "suck" you back into the relationship through manipulative messages or gestures that seem like reconciliation, but are actually attempts to regain control and validation.
- Flying Monkeys: Narcissists may recruit family members or friends to do their bidding, often to guilt or pressure you. These individuals are known as flying monkeys.
- Twisting the Narrative: Narcissists often distort the truth to make it seem like you are the one causing them harm, thus making others believe they are the victims.
- Silent Treatment: Narcissists may remain silent and wait for you to come back to them, as control and validation are central to their behaviour.
- Gaslighting: This is a common tactic used by narcissists when you go no contact. They manipulate reality to undermine your confidence and control.
- Divide and Conquer: Narcissists may push you into confusion and self-doubt, isolating you from other sources of support.
- Love Bombing: This is a tactic used by narcissists to overwhelm targets and regain contact, appearing genuine but meaning nothing.
- Playing the Victim: Vulnerable narcissists may play on your compassion and moral integrity by pretending to be the victim or guilt-tripping you.
When faced with smear campaigns, the best defence is to maintain no contact and address damaging lies only if absolutely necessary. It's important to focus on your well-being and not get sucked into the drama and lies of the narcissist.
Empaths may be particularly susceptible to narcissists, as they want to help people. However, it's crucial to be aware of your biases and how they influence your choices.
Remember, going no contact with a narcissist is challenging, but you should never feel sorry for someone who feels entitled to use toxic behaviour in a relationship. Setting firm boundaries can prevent you from being drawn back into the cycle of abuse.
- In dealing with the manipulative strategies of a narcissist, such as hoovering, gaslighting, or love bombing, it's essential for self-esteem and mental health to maintain a focus on personal health-and-wellness and mental-health.
- Empaths, due to their desire to help others, may find themselves susceptible to the tactics of narcissists, but understanding one's biases and staying aware can help build resilience in relationships.
- Psychology studies have shown that when faced with smear campaigns and damaging lies, the appropriate response is to disengage and seek help when necessary, instead of getting entangled in the narcissist's dramatic narrative.
- It is common for narcissists to recruit flying monkeys or employ divide and conquer tactics to isolate their targets, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong and balanced lifestyle and relying on supportive relationships.
- When going no contact with a narcissist, it's essential to steer clear of engaging in destructive cycles of control, validation, or guilt and instead prioritize self-preservation, self-esteem, and personal mental health.
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