A narcissist may choose to scrub or remove their information from various online platforms like Google, Facebook, and other social media for several reasons:
Reinventing Themselves: Narcissists often have a grandiose self-image and may want to maintain a certain public persona. If they feel that their online presence no longer aligns with the image they want to project or if there is negative information about them, they may try to erase or hide that information to create a new, more favorable image.
Avoiding Exposure: Narcissists can be sensitive to criticism or any form of negative attention. If they have engaged in problematic behavior or have been involved in conflicts that have become public, they may attempt to remove any evidence of their actions to avoid scrutiny and potential consequences.
Protecting Their Ego: Narcissists have fragile egos and crave admiration and validation from others. If their online presence does not garner the level of attention or praise they desire, they might try to hide or delete content that reflects negatively on them, ensuring that only positive aspects of their life remain visible.
Maintaining Control: Narcissists like to be in control of their image and how they are perceived by others. By removing or controlling the information available about them online, they can attempt to manage the narrative and maintain a sense of power over how they are portrayed.
Preventing Legal or Social Consequences: In some cases, a narcissist may scrub their online presence to avoid legal or social repercussions for their actions. This could be related to anything from legal disputes and potential criminal behavior to failed relationships or conflicts with others.
Privacy Concerns: While narcissists often crave attention, they may also be concerned about their privacy and the potential for others to use their personal information against them. Deleting or restricting their online presence could be a way to protect themselves from unwanted attention or exploitation.
It's important to note that narcissists' motivations are driven by their self-centered nature and desire to protect their self-image. Scrubbing their online information may not necessarily lead to genuine personal growth or change in their behavior; it is often a strategic move to serve their own interests.