When narcissists no longer feel connected to their partner, their behavior can vary depending on their personality and coping mechanisms. Here are some common actions or behaviors narcissists may exhibit when they no longer feel connected to their partner:
Discard or Devalue: Narcissists tend to devalue their partners when they no longer serve their needs or provide the desired admiration and attention. They may belittle, criticize, or demean their partner to maintain a sense of superiority.
Cheating and Infidelity: Some narcissists may engage in extramarital affairs or cheat on their partners to seek validation and attention from others.
Silent Treatment: When feeling disconnected or frustrated, a narcissist might resort to the silent treatment, withholding communication and affection as a form of punishment or control.
Gaslighting: Narcissists may use gaslighting tactics to manipulate their partners into doubting their feelings or perceptions, making them question whether the disconnection is their fault.
Hoovering: If the partner tries to leave or break up with the narcissist, they might engage in hoovering, a manipulative tactic to draw the partner back into the relationship by promising change or offering false apologies.
Seeking New Sources of Narcissistic Supply: When feeling disconnected from their current partner, narcissists may actively seek new sources of narcissistic supply (adulation, attention, and validation) from others outside the relationship.
Emotional Withholding: Narcissists may withhold emotional support or intimacy from their partner as a way to maintain control and keep them emotionally dependent.
Idealize New Targets: Narcissists may idealize and pursue new partners whom they believe will provide the admiration and validation they crave.
It's important to note that each narcissist's behavior can be different, and not all narcissists will engage in all of these actions. Additionally, the behavior of a narcissist is often characterized by a lack of empathy and a focus on their own needs, making it challenging to maintain a healthy and fulfilling relationship with them. If you suspect you are in a relationship with a narcissist and are experiencing emotional abuse or manipulation, it's crucial to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.