Yes, it is possible for a narcissist to become obsessed with an ex who keeps them blocked. Narcissistic individuals have an excessive need for admiration and a lack of empathy, and they often have fragile self-esteem beneath their grandiose facade. When a relationship ends, especially if it was the ex-partner who initiated the breakup or established boundaries like blocking them, it can be a significant blow to the narcissist's ego.
Here are some reasons why a narcissist might become obsessed with an ex who keeps them blocked:
Narcissistic Injury: Being blocked or rejected can trigger what is known as a narcissistic injury, which is a deep wound to their self-esteem. This injury can lead them to seek validation and revenge, fixating on regaining control and proving their superiority to their ex-partner.
Need for Control: Narcissists have an insatiable need for control over others. When they feel like they have lost control due to being blocked, they may become fixated on breaking through the barriers the ex has set to regain that control.
Hoovering: Narcissists often engage in hoovering, which is a manipulative tactic where they try to draw their ex-partner back into the relationship or maintain some form of contact. Being blocked might intensify their efforts to hoover, seeking ways to bypass the block or contact the ex through other means.
Idealization and Devaluation Cycle: Narcissists tend to idealize their partners in the beginning and then devalue them over time. When the ex-partner blocks them, it might trigger feelings of abandonment and loss, causing the narcissist to oscillate between wanting to win the ex back (idealization) and harboring resentment or seeking revenge (devaluation).
Ego-Supplies: Narcissists thrive on admiration, attention, and ego-supplies from others. Being blocked denies them these sources of validation, making them even more eager to regain access to their ex-partner for the ego-supply they once provided.
It's essential to remember that each individual is unique, and not every narcissist will react in the same way. Some may simply move on to seek other sources of attention and validation, while others may fixate on their blocked ex. If you or someone you know is dealing with a narcissistic ex-partner, it's crucial to establish and maintain firm boundaries for personal well-being and safety. Seeking support from friends, family, or professionals may be beneficial in coping with the situation.