Narcissists may or may not realize when someone has had enough of their behavior, and their response can vary depending on the individual narcissist's level of insight, emotional intelligence, and the nature of their relationship with the person involved. Here are some possible scenarios:
Lack of Awareness: Many narcissists lack insight into their behavior and its impact on others. They may be so self-absorbed and focused on their own needs that they fail to recognize or understand the feelings of those around them. As a result, they may not notice when someone has reached their breaking point.
Dismissal and Disregard: Some narcissists may recognize that the other person is upset or has had enough, but they might dismiss these feelings and continue with their behavior. They may view the person's emotional boundaries as a challenge to their control or superiority and respond with defensiveness or contempt.
Manipulative Tactics: In some cases, when a narcissist senses that someone is pulling away or setting boundaries, they may resort to manipulative tactics to regain control or keep the person in their life. They might use guilt-tripping, love-bombing, or other forms of emotional manipulation to lure the person back into the relationship.
Indifference: If the person who has had enough of the narcissist's behavior decides to distance themselves or end the relationship, the narcissist may react with indifference or even discard them without much emotional reaction. Narcissists often have shallow emotional connections and may move on quickly to find new sources of admiration and validation.
Blame-Shifting: Instead of reflecting on their own actions, some narcissists may blame the person who has had enough for the issues in the relationship. They might project their faults onto the other person, portraying themselves as the victim and the other person as the one at fault.
Revengeful Behaviors: In extreme cases, a narcissist who feels rejected or abandoned may respond with vindictive or revengeful behaviors, attempting to tarnish the person's reputation or cause emotional harm.
It's important to note that narcissistic behavior can manifest differently in each individual, and not all narcissists will respond the same way. Additionally, individuals with narcissistic traits may exist on a spectrum, and some may have more insight into their behavior and its consequences than others. Regardless, it's crucial for those who have experienced toxic relationships with narcissistic individuals to prioritize their own well-being, set healthy boundaries, and seek support from friends, family, or professionals to navigate the challenges associated with such relationships.