When a narcissist runs out of "narcissistic supply," which refers to the attention, admiration, and validation they seek from others, they may experience a range of reactions and behaviors. Narcissists rely heavily on the admiration and attention they receive from others to maintain their inflated sense of self-importance and bolster their fragile self-esteem. When this supply diminishes or disappears, they may go through several stages:
Devaluation and Discarding: Initially, the narcissist may react with anger, frustration, or disappointment towards those who were their suppliers. They might devalue and discard these individuals, dismissing them as unworthy or unimportant. The narcissist's perception of others can be highly polarized, swinging between idealization and devaluation.
Seeking New Sources: When their primary sources of narcissistic supply are no longer available or have become ineffective, the narcissist may intensify their efforts to find new sources. They might attempt to attract new admirers, surround themselves with different people, or engage in attention-seeking behaviors to fulfill their need for validation.
Depression and Withdrawal: As the narcissist struggles to find new sources of supply, they may experience periods of depression and withdrawal. Their self-esteem, which is largely dependent on external validation, can suffer greatly during these times.
Self-Reflection (Rare): In some cases, when the narcissist faces prolonged isolation or lack of supply, they might engage in self-reflection. This is a rare occurrence, but it can lead to personal growth and self-awareness if they genuinely confront their behavior and underlying insecurities.
Rage and Manipulation: When the narcissist feels threatened by the loss of supply, they may resort to manipulative tactics, such as gaslighting, guilt-tripping, or spreading rumors, to regain control and attention from others.
Avoidance and Disconnection: Some narcissists may choose to avoid situations that remind them of their lack of supply. They might withdraw from social circles or relationships to protect themselves from the pain of rejection.
It's essential to remember that each narcissist's reaction to the loss of narcissistic supply can vary, depending on their individual personality traits, coping mechanisms, and life circumstances. Additionally, not all narcissists will run out of supply entirely, as some may find new sources or manage to manipulate their way into obtaining continued admiration and attention.