The tendency for narcissistic survivors to get involved in another narcissistic relationship can be attributed to several factors:
Familiarity and Comfort: People often gravitate towards what is familiar, even if it is unhealthy. If someone has experienced narcissistic relationships in the past, they may find themselves drawn to similar dynamics without consciously realizing it. This can occur because they are more accustomed to the patterns and dynamics associated with narcissistic individuals.
Unresolved Emotional Issues: Survivors of narcissistic abuse may have unresolved emotional wounds, low self-esteem, or unmet needs from their past experiences. These unresolved issues can make them more vulnerable to entering into similar relationships, seeking validation or love from someone who might exploit their vulnerabilities.
Love Bombing and Idealization: Narcissists are skilled at love bombing and idealization during the early stages of a relationship. They shower their targets with attention, affection, and compliments, creating an intense and alluring bond. Survivors of previous narcissistic relationships might be especially susceptible to this idealization phase, making it challenging to identify the narcissist's true nature until later on.
Co-Dependency: Co-dependency is a common issue in narcissistic relationships, where one person's self-worth becomes dependent on the approval and validation from the narcissistic partner. Survivors may continue seeking out similar relationships due to co-dependency patterns that persist after the initial narcissistic relationship ends.
Lack of Awareness: While survivors might be more knowledgeable about narcissistic behavior, they might not fully recognize the extent of their emotional and psychological vulnerabilities, or they may underestimate the manipulative tactics that narcissists can employ. It takes time and personal growth to develop a deeper understanding of one's own emotional triggers and vulnerabilities and to build healthier relationship habits.
Isolation and Social Circles: Narcissists often isolate their targets from support systems and create a sense of dependency. This isolation can make it challenging for survivors to seek outside perspectives or support from friends and family, perpetuating the cycle of entering into narcissistic relationships.
Trauma Bonds: The trauma bond is a powerful and intense emotional connection that forms between an abuser and their victim. Survivors might experience a trauma bond with the narcissistic individual, which can make it difficult to break free from the toxic relationship and resist future attempts by other narcissists to form similar bonds.
Recognizing the signs of a narcissistic relationship is crucial, but the emotional complexities and vulnerabilities that underlie these patterns can make it difficult for survivors to break free entirely without professional support and personal growth. It's essential for survivors to seek therapy, support groups, or counseling to work through past trauma, build self-awareness, and develop healthier relationship dynamics.