It is unlikely that a narcissist will genuinely feel remorse or guilt for the damage caused by their smear campaign, even after years of no contact. Narcissists have difficulty empathizing with others and tend to lack insight into their own harmful behaviors. They often see themselves as faultless and might rationalize or justify their actions, even if they were responsible for inflicting pain on others.
The smear campaign, which is a tactic used by narcissists to damage someone's reputation and credibility, is a way for them to protect their own ego and maintain control over the narrative. They may have spread lies, rumors, or distorted information about you to manipulate others and ensure their version of events prevails.
Here are some reasons why a narcissist may not feel remorse for their smear campaign:
Lack of Empathy: Narcissists struggle to understand or connect with the emotional impact of their actions on others, including the harm caused by their smear campaign.
Self-Preservation: To acknowledge the harm caused by their actions would require them to admit they were wrong or manipulative, which conflicts with their need to maintain a perfect self-image.
Avoiding Responsibility: Narcissists often deflect blame and avoid taking responsibility for their actions. They may shift the blame onto the victim, claiming the smear campaign was justified or that the victim deserved it.
No Emotional Attachment: Since narcissists tend to view others as objects to be used for their benefit, they may not form deep emotional attachments. Therefore, they may not feel a sense of loss or remorse for the pain they inflicted.
Lack of Self-Awareness: Narcissists have limited self-awareness and struggle to recognize their own destructive patterns of behavior.
It's essential to remember that narcissistic behavior is driven by deep-rooted psychological issues, and their actions are not a reflection of your worth or character. If you have been a victim of a smear campaign or any form of narcissistic abuse, it's crucial to focus on your own healing and well-being. Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be beneficial in processing the experience and moving forward in a healthy and empowered way.