Yes, it is possible for a narcissist to completely change their group of friends and "ghost" all the old ones. Narcissists often engage in this behavior for several reasons:
Need for New Sources of Validation: Narcissists crave admiration and validation from others. When they feel that their current group of friends no longer provides the level of attention and validation they desire, they may seek out new friendships or social circles that are more likely to fulfill their needs.
Discarding and Idealization Cycle: Narcissists tend to engage in a cycle of idealization and devaluation in their relationships. At the beginning of a friendship, they may idealize their new friends, showering them with attention and praise. However, over time, they might start to devalue these individuals and look for new friends who they believe will be more fulfilling.
Lack of Genuine Connections: Narcissists often struggle to maintain deep and meaningful connections with others due to their self-centered nature and lack of empathy. As a result, they may have a revolving door of friendships, discarding old friends when they no longer serve their purposes.
Manipulative Behavior: Narcissists may use "ghosting" as a manipulative tactic to gain control or punish those they are leaving behind. By abruptly cutting off contact without explanation, they leave their former friends confused and hurt, which can make them more vulnerable to the narcissist's future attempts to reestablish contact.
Fear of Rejection: While narcissists may appear confident on the surface, they often have fragile self-esteem. If they sense that their old friends are becoming critical or disapproving of their behavior, they may preemptively cut ties to avoid facing rejection.
It's important to note that not all narcissists will engage in this specific behavior, and individual differences exist. Additionally, some narcissists may maintain long-term relationships with certain individuals who continue to provide them with the desired admiration and validation.
If you find yourself dealing with a narcissistic friend who has ghosted you, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and seek support from other friends or a therapist. Healthy relationships are built on mutual respect and empathy, and it's essential to surround yourself with people who genuinely care about your feelings and well-being.