While it is possible for a narcissist to experience moments of clarity or self-awareness, it is essential to understand that narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a complex and deeply ingrained mental health condition. Narcissists have a distorted sense of self-importance, an excessive need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
In relationships, narcissists often seek admiration, validation, and attention from others (commonly referred to as "supply"). They may cycle through different sources of supply as their needs change or if they feel unsatisfied with their current supply. It's not uncommon for a narcissist to idealize a new source of supply initially, only to devalue and discard them once they no longer meet the narcissist's expectations or provide the desired level of admiration.
Returning to a previous source of supply is also a possibility if the narcissist feels that the prior source offered more gratification or was easier to manipulate. However, it is crucial to remember that the behavior of narcissists can be unpredictable and may vary from individual to individual.
Additionally, it is not typical for a narcissist to genuinely recognize and address their narcissistic tendencies or seek help voluntarily. Narcissistic personality disorder is notoriously challenging to treat because individuals with NPD often lack insight into their condition and tend to resist therapy or any suggestion that they need to change their behavior.
If you are dealing with a person whom you suspect has narcissistic tendencies, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and consider setting boundaries or seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. Dealing with a narcissistic individual can be emotionally challenging, and it's essential to take care of yourself during such interactions.