Yes, narcissistic individuals can experience grief and pain when a spouse or a loved one dies. Despite their self-centered and self-absorbed tendencies, narcissists are still human beings with emotions. Like anyone else, they can experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness, loss, and grief.
The intensity and expression of grief may vary among narcissistic individuals based on their personality traits and the nature of their relationship with the deceased spouse. Some narcissists may struggle more with feelings of loss and vulnerability, while others may be better at hiding or suppressing their emotions.
In some cases, a narcissist's reaction to the death of a spouse may also be influenced by factors such as their level of dependency on the deceased, their perception of how the loss affects their self-image, and the potential for gaining sympathy or attention from others.
It's important to remember that every individual is unique, and the way they cope with loss and grief can be influenced by a wide range of personal and environmental factors. Grief is a complex and individual process, and it's best approached with empathy and understanding, regardless of the person's personality traits.