A narcissist's behavior and attitude towards their victims can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances. It's important to remember that narcissism exists on a spectrum, and people with narcissistic traits may display different patterns of behavior.
In some cases, a narcissist may not forget their victims, especially if they perceive those victims as a threat to their self-image or if they hold grudges. They might hold onto the memory of those they believe have challenged or wronged them, and they could seek revenge or try to undermine their victims even after some time has passed.
On the other hand, narcissists are known for their lack of empathy and emotional detachment, which can lead them to disregard or forget about the harm they have caused to others. They may not experience genuine remorse for their actions and might minimize or rationalize the pain they have inflicted on their victims. In this sense, they can "forget" the impact of their behavior, as they may not attach the same emotional weight to it as their victims do.
Additionally, narcissists often view others as tools or sources of narcissistic supply (i.e., admiration, attention, and validation). Once a victim is no longer useful to them, they might devalue and discard them without much consideration for the harm they have caused. This behavior, known as the "idealize-devalue-discard" cycle, can lead to the narcissist seemingly forgetting or disregarding their past victims when they move on to new sources of supply.
It's crucial to remember that the lack of empathy and emotional connection in narcissists can make it challenging for them to fully comprehend the emotional impact of their actions on others. As a result, they might not remember or acknowledge the harm they have caused, or they may do so selectively to suit their own narrative.
If you have been a victim of a narcissist, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to help you cope with the aftermath of such an experience. Recovery from narcissistic abuse can be a challenging process, and having a support network can be instrumental in healing and moving forward.