While it is difficult to make sweeping generalizations about all narcissists and their relationship preferences, some patterns and tendencies have been observed in narcissistic individuals when it comes to choosing partners. It's important to remember that not all narcissists behave the same way, and individual differences exist.
That said, some narcissists may be drawn to individuals who have previously been in relationships with other narcissists. There are a few reasons for this:
Familiarity: Narcissists may feel more comfortable with someone who has experience dealing with narcissistic behavior. The person's past experience with a narcissist may normalize certain toxic dynamics that the new narcissistic partner can exploit.
Vulnerability: People who have previously been in relationships with narcissists may have vulnerabilities or traits that make them susceptible to manipulative tactics. Narcissists may target individuals they perceive as more likely to tolerate or overlook their problematic behavior.
Control and Power: Narcissists often seek partners who they believe they can control and dominate. Someone who has been in a relationship with a narcissist before may be conditioned to accept controlling behavior, making them an attractive target for another narcissistic partner.
Ego Validation: Narcissists crave admiration and validation. When they see someone who has endured a relationship with a narcissist, they may perceive this person as having a high threshold for enduring challenging situations, and the narcissist might see it as a validation of their desirability.
It's crucial to note that not all individuals who have experienced a relationship with a narcissist will fall into this pattern, and not all narcissists seek out such partners. Additionally, healthy and supportive relationships are built on mutual respect, empathy, and understanding – qualities that are often lacking in relationships involving narcissistic individuals.
If you or someone you know is dealing with the aftermath of a relationship involving a narcissistic partner, seeking support from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial in understanding the experiences, setting healthy boundaries, and building healthier relationship patterns moving forward.