When a narcissist realizes they can't get to you emotionally anymore, they may react in different ways, depending on the individual and the severity of their narcissistic traits. Here are some common reactions you might observe:
Discard and move on: If the narcissist perceives that they can no longer manipulate or control you emotionally, they may decide to discard you and find a new target who they believe will be more responsive to their tactics. This is known as the "discard phase" in the cycle of narcissistic abuse.
Rage and retaliation: Narcissists can be prone to intense feelings of anger and frustration when they encounter resistance or realize they are losing their emotional hold on someone. They may lash out, make hurtful remarks, or engage in vindictive behaviors to try and regain control or inflict emotional pain.
Hoovering: In some cases, when a narcissist feels they are losing their emotional supply, they may attempt to "hoover" or suck the person back into the relationship. They might use manipulation, sweet-talking, or false promises to try to re-establish their control and emotional influence over the individual.
Attempts to provoke emotional responses: When a narcissist realizes they are no longer triggering emotional reactions from you, they may deliberately provoke you to elicit a response. They might try to push your buttons, gaslight you, or create situations to make you feel emotionally invested again.
Disengagement: Some narcissists might simply disengage and withdraw when they sense that their usual tactics are ineffective. They may lose interest if they can't get the emotional reactions they crave and search for new sources of narcissistic supply elsewhere.
It's important to note that dealing with a narcissist can be challenging, and these reactions can be unpredictable and harmful. If you find yourself in a situation with a narcissistic individual, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. Setting boundaries and distance from toxic relationships is often necessary for personal growth and emotional healing.