Denial and Deflection: A cheating narcissist is likely to deny or downplay the cheating behavior and may attempt to shift blame onto their partner or external circumstances.
Gaslighting: Narcissists often engage in gaslighting, which is a manipulation tactic aimed at making the victim doubt their own perceptions and reality. They may try to convince their partner that the cheating never happened or that it was somehow justified.
Manipulation and Emotional Abuse: Narcissists are skilled at manipulation and emotional abuse. They may use tactics like guilt-tripping, silent treatment, or love bombing to control their partner's emotions and keep them in the relationship.
Seeking Validation: Narcissists crave admiration and validation. After cheating, they may seek reassurance from their partner or others to bolster their ego and maintain their self-image.
Lack of Remorse: A narcissist may not show genuine remorse for their actions. Instead, they may feel entitled to their behavior or view themselves as the victim in the situation.
Continuing the Affair: In some cases, a cheating narcissist may continue the affair or seek new partners despite being caught. Their need for admiration and attention can drive them to pursue multiple relationships simultaneously.
Emotional Withdrawal: If their partner confronts them about the cheating, a narcissist may emotionally withdraw or become defensive, avoiding open communication and refusing to address the issue constructively.
Rationalization: A cheating narcissist may rationalize their actions, convincing themselves that their partner's supposed flaws or mistakes justified their infidelity.
Love-Bombing and Idealization: To keep their partner emotionally attached, a narcissist may resort to love-bombing—showering them with affection, compliments, and gifts—to idealize the relationship and create a false sense of security.
Repeating the Cycle: Unfortunately, narcissists often repeat destructive patterns in their relationships. They may continue to cheat and manipulate, leading to a cycle of betrayal and emotional harm.
It is essential to remember that not all cheaters are narcissists, and not all narcissists cheat. However, if you suspect that you or someone you know is in a relationship with a cheating narcissist, seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling, can be beneficial in understanding and addressing the situation effectively.