Yes, narcissists may still come back even if they have portrayed you negatively or believe you're the "devil," and even if they have found new supply. Understanding the dynamics of narcissistic behavior can shed light on why this happens:
Hoovering: Hoovering is a term used to describe the manipulative tactic employed by narcissists to draw their previous victims back into a relationship or situation. Even if they have a new source of narcissistic supply, they may attempt to reconnect with you for various reasons.
Idealization and Devaluation Cycle: Narcissists tend to cycle between idealization and devaluation. During the idealization phase, they might shower you with love and attention. However, when they perceive a threat to their ego or need to assert control, they can quickly shift to devaluation, demonizing and devaluing you. After some time, they might return to the idealization phase, causing a cycle of "push-pull" behavior.
Emotional Manipulation: Narcissists are skilled at manipulating emotions, and they might reach out to you again to exploit any lingering emotional attachment, guilt, or vulnerability they believe they can use to their advantage.
Securing Backup Supply: Narcissists might keep their previous victims on the back burner as a source of backup supply in case their new supply doesn't meet their expectations or if they experience a narcissistic injury (a blow to their ego).
Validation and Control: By re-establishing contact with you, even if they have demonized you before, the narcissist can regain a sense of control and validation over you. It may also feed their sense of superiority if they believe they can still manipulate and influence you.
Lack of Empathy and Entitlement: Narcissists lack empathy and often have a sense of entitlement, believing they can act as they please without regard for the feelings of others. They may return to you simply because they want to, regardless of how they have treated you in the past.
If a narcissist tries to come back into your life, it's crucial to be cautious and considerate of your own well-being. Remember that narcissistic relationships can be emotionally damaging, and engaging with them again may lead to further manipulation, gaslighting, and harm. Setting and maintaining strong boundaries is essential to protect yourself from potential harm. If you find it challenging to cope with the situation or to set boundaries on your own, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional who can guide you through this process.