Yes, it is possible for a narcissist to remain emotionally attached to or "stuck on" an old supply even while being with someone else. Narcissists often have a pattern of seeking admiration, validation, and attention from others (known as narcissistic supply) to boost their fragile self-esteem and maintain their grandiose self-image. This constant need for validation can lead them to form intense attachments to individuals who serve as sources of supply.
When a narcissist is in a relationship with a new partner, they may still have lingering emotional attachments to their previous supply sources. This can manifest in various ways:
Idealization of the Past: The narcissist may idealize the old supply and reminisce about the "good times" they had together, conveniently forgetting or downplaying the negative aspects of the relationship.
Comparison and Devaluation: The new partner may be constantly compared to the old supply, and the narcissist might find faults in the current relationship, believing that the previous supply was superior.
Hoovering: The narcissist may intermittently try to reconnect with the old supply, especially during times of stress or dissatisfaction with the new relationship. This can be a tactic to maintain control over the old supply or to use them as a backup option.
Triangulation: The narcissist may use the old supply to triangulate with the new partner, creating jealousy or competition to boost their ego and create a sense of power.
Fear of Abandonment: The narcissist might fear losing the old supply completely and thus keep them as an emotional backup in case the new relationship fails.
It's crucial to recognize that a narcissist's behavior is driven by their deep-seated insecurities and the need for narcissistic supply. Their relationships tend to be manipulative and emotionally draining for those involved. If you suspect that you or someone you know is in a relationship with a narcissist, seeking professional support from a therapist experienced in dealing with narcissistic personality disorder can be helpful in understanding the dynamics and developing coping strategies.