When they see their victim suffering, they might not feel genuine concern or compassion.
Indifference: Some narcissists may be indifferent to their victim's suffering and may not care about the pain they are causing. They might be more focused on their own needs, desires, and self-image, rather than the well-being of others.
Blame-shifting: Rather than feeling empathy or guilt, narcissists may shift the blame onto their victims. They might believe that the victim brought the suffering upon themselves or deserved it in some way, absolving themselves of any responsibility.
Satisfaction or Power: In some cases, narcissists may feel a sense of satisfaction or power when they see their victims suffering. It might reinforce their sense of superiority and control over others, boosting their ego.
Minimization or Dismissal: Narcissists may downplay or dismiss their victim's suffering, invalidating their emotions and experiences. They might even try to convince the victim that they are overreacting or exaggerating the pain they feel.
Exploitation: Some narcissists might use their victim's suffering to further manipulate or exploit them. They may leverage the victim's vulnerability to gain more control or to elicit sympathy from others.
It's important to remember that narcissistic behavior is a complex psychological pattern, and different narcissists may exhibit varying degrees of these traits. Furthermore, not all people with narcissistic traits are necessarily malicious or intentionally seeking to cause suffering. Some individuals with narcissistic tendencies might be more inclined to change or seek help, while others may be deeply entrenched in their harmful behaviors.
If you are dealing with a situation involving a narcissist and are experiencing significant emotional distress, consider seeking support from a mental health professional who can provide guidance and help you navigate through the challenges you are facing.