Narcissistic symbiosis, also known as a narcissistic/codependent or narcissistic/dependent relationship, is a psychological concept that describes a dynamic between two individuals, wherein one person (the narcissist) dominates and feeds off the emotional dependence and admiration of the other person (the codependent or dependent).
In this type of relationship, the codependent often has low self-esteem and a strong desire to please and gain approval from the narcissist. They may sacrifice their own needs and desires to cater to the narcissist's demands, seeking validation and a sense of purpose through their association with the perceived specialness of the narcissist.
The narcissist, on the other hand, thrives on the excessive attention and adoration from the codependent. They use their partner's emotional vulnerability and dependency to maintain a sense of power, control, and superiority. The narcissist relies on the codependent for constant admiration and validation of their grandiosity, which helps to reinforce their fragile self-esteem.
Narcissistic symbiosis is different from BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) symbiosis, although there can be some overlap in dysfunctional relationship dynamics. BPD symbiosis often refers to a pattern where two individuals with borderline traits or a full-blown BPD diagnosis form an intense and unstable emotional bond. This bond can be fueled by fear of abandonment, identity issues, and emotional dysregulation.
In BPD symbiosis, both individuals might have strong emotional needs and insecurities, and they become enmeshed in each other's emotions, often leading to a volatile and tumultuous relationship. The focus is more on emotional intensity, fear of abandonment, and identity fusion, rather than on the narcissist's need for admiration and the codependent's need for validation.
In summary, narcissistic symbiosis is primarily characterized by the dominance of a narcissistic individual and the emotional dependence of a codependent individual seeking validation and a sense of worth through association. BPD symbiosis, on the other hand, involves intense emotional enmeshment and fear of abandonment between two individuals with borderline traits. While they may share some common dysfunctional elements, the underlying motivations and dynamics in these relationships differ significantly.