Narcissistic abuse is a vicious cycle that robs victims of their self-esteem and confidence. These abusers will isolate their victims from their families and friends, and from their own finances. Narcissists will exploit their victims’ insecurities and painful memories in order to gain acceptance. They will use these feelings and memories to manipulate their victims and to destroy their hopes.
Narcissistic Abuse Is a Cycle of Self-Esteem and Confidence
The effects of narcissistic abuse often start with low self-esteem and lack of confidence. The victim will question their own worth, constantly second-guess themselves, and feel insecure and unworthy. They may also feel guilty and ashamed for the abuse they suffered. These feelings can prevent them from getting help. Narcissistic abuse victims can also suffer from problems with decision-making. Despite their lack of self-confidence, they may find themselves confused about decisions they previously had no trouble with.
Narcissistic abusers like to manipulate their victims with fear. They may make their victims psychologically and visibly fearful of their abuser. They may paralyze them with anxiety, worrying about making the wrong move and overstepping boundaries set by their abuser. The victim may become a ‘gofer’ to their abuser’s needs, often performing menial or degrading tasks in their relationship.
Because narcissists need to look perfect, they will often make their victims look bad in front of others. They may even make up stories to criticize their victims. They will also make their victims feel angry and isolated, which in turn leads to low self-esteem. In time, the abuser will eventually break the boundaries and withdraw from the victim’s life. A narcissist’s tactics will fade away as the goals have been achieved. But, the cycle of self-esteem and confidence will be renewed when the stakes change.
The victim of narcissistic abuse may develop a deep need to retaliate, creating a cycle of stress and anxiety, which will continue to repeat itself. This cycle will perpetuate itself in the victims, putting them at risk of mental health issues. If the abuse continues untreated, children may become frightened of situations that remind them of the abuse and have low self-esteem.
It Can Be Difficult to Trust
Narcissistic abusers rarely know where they stand and make victims feel unsafe and unworthy. Their behaviors may include lying and manipulating. They may also engage in constant battles about the same thing. The relationship can drain the victim emotionally and physically. In addition, victims may experience a high level of stress and anxiety. Symptoms of narcissistic abuse include depression, irritability, insomnia, anxiety, and PTSD.
The narcissist is unable to take responsibility for the dynamics of the relationship, and victims are often gaslighted by the abuser. Their partners feel incapable of handling the situation and constantly question their worth and capability. In addition, the narcissist will quickly point out the inabilities and flaws of their partner. Moreover, the abuser will not give them any time or space to open up and develop their own trustworthiness.
A narcissist will reframe their victims’ good qualities as flaws. This will lead them back to the idealization stage. Narcissists will often use demeaning behaviors and power to make victims feel bad. They can even use their abusers to make the victim feel less bad. As a result, the victim will be desperate to return to the initial phase of the relationship.
It Can Derail Goals and Aspirations
In addition to causing low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse can also result in difficulty focusing on goals and dreams. The narcissist will likely try to manipulate their victim into believing that they are not good enough or unworthy. The victim may also struggle with low self-esteem, and believe that if their abuser had been different, they would have been treated differently.
In addition to destroying self-esteem, narcissists will attempt to manipulate and exploit their victims. Their behaviors are characterized by lies, and they attempt to deflect attention from their abusive conduct by using others’ views and perceptions to support their own beliefs. They also ignore boundaries and violate privacy. Finally, they will spread malicious gossip about their victims to make them feel inadequate and incompetent.
If you are concerned that your child may be experiencing narcissistic abuse, learn to recognize warning signs of narcissistic behavior. Narcissists often use a “broken record” strategy to divert attention away from their own ideas. They can be overly emotional and easily become enraged if they disagree with their views. It is important to understand that narcissists do not have good intentions and are often deluded by their own delusions.
It Can Leave You Empty Inside
A narcissist’s pity play is a subtle form of manipulation, and it can be especially devastating to those who are highly empathic and who believe in ‘love conquers all’ and endless chances. When they feel bad, they may make you cry and use a variety of emotions to slander you, or they may twist the truth to discredit others. Narcissistic abuse can leave you hollow inside – and it’s a common reaction for those who have been subject to the abuse.
The loss of love can be debilitating for victims of narcissistic abuse. Because narcs lack empathy, they force their victims to open their hearts to them. This vulnerability exposes their innermost secrets, which makes them vulnerable to attack by channeling shame, despair, and guilt. If you’ve been abused by a narcissist, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone. Narcissistic abuse is a form of sexual abuse, and it can leave you empty inside.
When a narcissist becomes your partner, it’s crucial to maintain your boundaries. Narcissists are unpredictable, and they will try to wear you down by wearing you down with their behavior. You’ll find it difficult to establish boundaries, relax, and create a safe space for yourself. In the end, you’ll be left with a broken heart and an empty inside.
It’s important to seek the help of mental health professionals. Therapists specialize in helping victims overcome the trauma caused by narcissistic abuse. They can help you set boundaries and communicate with your narcissist effectively. By working through your denial and guilt, you’ll be better equipped to deal with the psychological and physical wounds resulting from narcissistic abuse. In addition to professional help, victims can also engage in self-care. Physical exercise can help restore cortisol levels and boost mood. Relaxation techniques can also help victims overcome depression.