When a person goes "no contact" with a narcissist, it means they choose to cut off all communication and interaction with the narcissist, often to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the narcissistic behavior. This decision can trigger intense anger and various reactions from the narcissist due to their personality traits and underlying emotional vulnerabilities. Here are some reasons why narcissists may get angry when faced with no contact:
Loss of control: Narcissists crave control over others and their environment. When someone goes no contact, it represents a loss of control for the narcissist. They may feel powerless and frustrated because they can no longer manipulate or influence the person who has cut them off.
Ego wounded: Narcissists have fragile self-esteem, and the rejection implied by going no contact can severely wound their ego. They might perceive it as a personal attack or rejection, leading to anger and retaliation.
Narcissistic injury: No contact can be seen as a narcissistic injury, which is any perceived threat to the narcissist's self-image or self-worth. They may react with rage to protect their inflated self-image and to defend against feelings of shame and inadequacy.
Loss of Narcissistic Supply: Narcissists require a constant flow of admiration, attention, and validation from others, known as narcissistic supply, to maintain their sense of self-worth. When someone goes no contact, the narcissist loses a significant source of supply, leading to anger and frustration.
Fear of abandonment: Despite their grandiose demeanor, many narcissists have an underlying fear of abandonment. No contact can activate this fear, leading to anger as a defensive response to potential rejection.
Control tactics: Some narcissists may resort to anger and aggression to attempt to regain control or manipulate the person into re-establishing contact.
Lack of empathy: Narcissists typically lack empathy and struggle to understand or consider the feelings of others. They may not grasp why someone would choose to cut them off and may interpret it as a betrayal.
It's essential to remember that going no contact with a narcissist is often a healthy and necessary step for those dealing with narcissistic abuse. It helps protect emotional well-being and allows the individual to break free from the toxic cycle of manipulation and control.
However, implementing no contact can be challenging because narcissists may try various tactics to re-engage the person. It's crucial for individuals in such situations to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals to help them stay strong and maintain boundaries. Breaking free from a narcissistic relationship can be emotionally demanding, and having a support system is invaluable during this process.