Narcissists often behave their worst when you're at your lowest because they are driven by a need for control, power, and validation. They thrive on feeling superior and dominant, and when they see someone vulnerable or weak, they view it as an opportunity to exploit and manipulate them further. There are a few reasons why narcissists tend to behave more aggressively or cruelly when someone is at their lowest:
Gaining control: When a person is at their lowest, they are more susceptible to manipulation and control. Narcissists recognize this vulnerability and use it to assert dominance over the individual, making them easier to influence and exploit.
Securing narcissistic supply: Narcissists constantly seek attention, admiration, and validation from others, known as "narcissistic supply." When someone is feeling down or struggling, the narcissist might see it as a threat to their supply, as the focus is not on them. To reestablish their importance and regain attention, they may escalate negative behaviors to draw attention back to themselves.
Feeling threatened: A person at their lowest may be more assertive in setting boundaries or standing up to the narcissist's manipulative tactics. Narcissists perceive any challenge to their control as a threat, triggering defensive and aggressive reactions.
Emotional manipulation: Narcissists are skilled at emotional manipulation, and they may use someone's vulnerability to gaslight, guilt-trip, or emotionally exploit them. By keeping the person off-balance emotionally, the narcissist can maintain a position of power and control.
Empathy deficit: Narcissists lack genuine empathy, making it difficult for them to understand or care about the emotional state of others. As a result, they may not feel any compunction about exploiting someone's vulnerability for their benefit.
Reinforcing their superiority: Narcissists have a deep-seated need to feel superior to others. When someone is struggling, they may perceive this as evidence of their own superiority and take the opportunity to demean or belittle the person to boost their own ego.
It's important to recognize that narcissists have complex personality disorders, and their behavior is rooted in deep-seated psychological issues. Interacting with a narcissist can be emotionally and mentally draining, particularly when you're at your lowest. If you find yourself in a relationship with a narcissistic individual, it's crucial to prioritize your well-being and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to navigate the challenges associated with these dynamics.