When a narcissist avoids eye contact during the discard phase, it can be attributed to several factors related to their personality traits and manipulative tactics:
Avoiding Accountability: Narcissists often lack accountability for their actions. When they discard someone, it is likely that they have done or said hurtful things during the relationship. Avoiding eye contact helps them evade any sense of guilt or responsibility for their behavior.
Maintaining Control: Eye contact can create a sense of intimacy and connection. By avoiding eye contact, the narcissist may be trying to establish emotional distance and maintain control over the situation.
Hiding True Emotions: Discarding someone, even for a narcissist, can elicit some emotions. However, narcissists may not want to show vulnerability or any indication that they might still have feelings for the person they are discarding. Avoiding eye contact helps them hide their emotions.
Feeling Superior: Narcissists often view themselves as superior to others. Avoiding eye contact can be a way for them to assert their dominance and reinforce their belief that they are above the person they are discarding.
Invalidation and Devaluation: Eye contact can convey empathy and validation, which is the opposite of how a narcissist typically treats others during a discard. By avoiding eye contact, they reinforce the devaluation of the person they are discarding.
Manipulating Perception: Narcissists are skilled at manipulating perceptions and gaslighting. Avoiding eye contact can make the other person doubt their own feelings or interpretations of the situation.
Lack of Connection: Narcissists struggle with forming deep emotional connections with others. Avoiding eye contact can be a manifestation of this lack of genuine connection and empathy.
It's essential to recognize these behaviors as red flags and understand that the discard phase in a relationship with a narcissist can be emotionally distressing. If you find yourself dealing with a narcissistic individual, it's crucial to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to navigate through the healing process and establish healthier boundaries in future relationships.