Narcissists can experience emotions, but their emotional range tends to be limited compared to individuals without narcissistic traits. When it comes to ending a long-term relationship, a narcissist may experience a mix of emotions, but their primary feelings are likely to revolve around themselves rather than genuine sadness for the loss of the relationship.
Here are some possible emotions a narcissist might experience when ending a long-term relationship:
Anger and Frustration: Narcissists might feel anger and frustration if they feel rejected or perceive the ending of the relationship as a loss of control over their partner.
Ego Injury: Narcissists have fragile self-esteem, and the end of a long-term relationship might cause ego injury, leading to defensive behaviors or attempts to bolster their self-image.
Fear of Abandonment: Narcissists fear being abandoned or discarded, so even if they initiate the breakup, they might struggle with feelings of abandonment and rejection.
Loss of Narcissistic Supply: Ending a long-term relationship means losing a significant source of attention, admiration, and validation. Narcissists might experience withdrawal symptoms from the lack of narcissistic supply.
Disappointment in Their "Investment": Narcissists may view relationships as transactions, and if they feel they have "invested" a lot in the relationship (e.g., time, resources), they might feel disappointed about not receiving the returns they expected.
Relief or Indifference: Depending on their perception of the relationship, a narcissist may feel relieved to be free from commitment and responsibilities. They might also exhibit indifference towards their partner's emotional state during the breakup.
It's important to note that any sadness a narcissist might display is often superficial and self-centered. They may mourn the loss of control, the loss of supply, or the disruption to their image, rather than genuinely grieving the end of a meaningful connection with their partner.
Keep in mind that narcissists are more focused on their own needs and desires, and their reactions to a breakup can be unpredictable. Some might seek revenge, while others may quickly move on to find a new source of supply. It's crucial for the non-narcissistic partner to prioritize their emotional well-being, seek support from friends or professionals, and establish boundaries to protect themselves during and after the breakup process.