When a narcissist ignores you after making a mistake, it's typically a part of their manipulative and defensive behavior. There are several reasons why a narcissist may react this way:
Avoiding Responsibility: Narcissists have a deep fear of being exposed or criticized for their mistakes or flaws. By ignoring you, they try to evade any accountability for their actions and avoid having to confront the consequences of their behavior.
Preserving Self-Image: Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and a fragile ego. Admitting a mistake or apologizing can be perceived as a threat to their grandiose self-image. Ignoring you is a way for them to protect their self-perceived perfection and superiority.
Control and Power: Ignoring you is a way for the narcissist to exert control over the situation. It can leave you feeling anxious, confused, and desperate for their attention, allowing them to manipulate you further or maintain their dominance in the relationship.
Withholding Affection: Narcissists may use the silent treatment as a form of emotional punishment. They know that ignoring you can be hurtful and emotionally distressing, and they may enjoy the feeling of power it gives them to see you upset or seeking their validation.
Lack of Empathy: Narcissists have limited empathy for others, which means they may not fully grasp or care about the emotional impact their behavior has on you. Ignoring you might be a callous response to them, as they prioritize their own needs and feelings above yours.
Gaslighting: By ignoring you after a mistake, a narcissist may try to make you doubt your own perceptions and emotions. This gaslighting tactic can leave you questioning whether the mistake even occurred or if it was as significant as you thought.
It's important to remember that a narcissist's behavior is not a reflection of your worth or value as a person. Their actions are driven by their own psychological issues and insecurities. If you find yourself dealing with a narcissistic individual, setting boundaries and seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can be crucial in maintaining your emotional well-being. In some cases, it might be necessary to distance yourself from the narcissist for your own mental and emotional health.