When a person finally walks away from a narcissistic individual after enduring abuse, it can lead to the narcissist seeing them as an enemy due to several reasons:
Loss of control: Narcissists thrive on having control over others, and when someone decides to leave them, it threatens their sense of power and superiority. They might view the person's departure as a personal attack or rejection, which can trigger feelings of anger and resentment.
Narcissistic injury: The act of leaving a narcissist can be perceived as an insult to their fragile ego. Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and expect constant admiration and compliance. When someone they considered "inferior" decides to leave, it can cause a narcissistic injury, leading to a hostile response.
Fear of exposure: Leaving a narcissist means that the person is no longer under the narcissist's control and influence. This can lead to the narcissist fearing that the person will reveal their true nature and abusive behavior to others, which they desperately try to hide. Consequently, they may try to discredit or vilify the individual who left to protect their image.
Lack of empathy: Narcissists generally lack empathy and struggle to understand or acknowledge the pain they've caused others. Instead of reflecting on their behavior, they may blame the person who left for the relationship's failure and see them as the source of all their problems.
Need for validation: Narcissists require constant validation and admiration to maintain their self-esteem. When someone they once controlled stops caring about them, it can be a blow to their self-worth. To cope with this, they may try to regain control or validation by turning the situation into a competition or portraying the person as the villain.
Retaliation: Narcissists can be vengeful, especially when they feel rejected or abandoned. They may resort to various tactics, such as spreading rumors, engaging in smear campaigns, or actively trying to harm the person who left as a way to "get back" at them.
It's important to understand that these reactions stem from the narcissist's own insecurities and psychological issues. Walking away from an abusive relationship with a narcissist is often a necessary step for one's own well-being and healing. However, it's essential to prioritize safety when dealing with a narcissist, as they can be unpredictable and potentially harmful in their response to rejection. Seeking support from friends, family, or a professional therapist can be crucial in navigating this challenging process.