Ending a relationship is tough, and it gets even trickier when you’re dealing with a narcissist. These are people who are self-centered and often play mind games. When things are falling apart, they do some things that can make it even harder. Let’s talk about these behaviors so you can recognize them and know how to deal with them.
1. Love-bombing
At the beginning of a relationship, narcissists often shower their partner with love and affection. But as the relationship nears its end, they may suddenly withdraw this affection. They go from making you feel like the most special person to making you feel ignored and unimportant.
2. Gaslighting
Narcissists are experts at making you doubt your own reality. Near the end of a relationship, they might intensify this manipulation tactic, causing confusion and self-doubt. They may deny things they previously said or did, making you question your own memory and judgment.
3. Playing the Victim
When narcissists sense the relationship is ending, they may portray themselves as victims. They’ll blame you for everything that went wrong, painting themselves as innocent and unfairly treated. This tactic is meant to garner sympathy and guilt-trip you.
4. Silent Treatment
Narcissists use the silent treatment as a way to punish you or gain control. They may employ this tactic more frequently towards the end of a relationship, leaving you feeling isolated and desperate for their attention.
5. Online Harassment
Some narcissists resort to online harassment after a breakup, using social media or other platforms to stalk, threaten, or slander their ex-partner. This behavior can be distressing and may require legal intervention.
6. Financial Manipulation
In some cases, narcissists may attempt to manipulate finances during or after a breakup. This could involve withholding money, draining joint accounts, or making false financial claims to gain an advantage in legal proceedings.
7. Emotional Manipulation
As a relationship with a narcissist nears its end, they may increase their manipulative tactics. They might use feelings of guilt, fear, or pity to try to make you stay or to get you to do what they want.
8. Smear Campaign
Some narcissists resort to spreading false information and rumors about you to tarnish your reputation among mutual friends, family, or colleagues. This can be a way to maintain a sense of power and control even after the relationship ends.
9. Triangulation
Narcissists might introduce a new person into the equation, often an ex-partner or a potential new romantic interest, to create jealousy and insecurity in you. This tactic is designed to maintain control and keep you emotionally invested.
10. Hoovering
After a breakup, narcissists may engage in “hoovering,” where they attempt to suck you back into the relationship. They might send heartfelt messages, promise to change, or even show up unannounced to reel you back in.
11. Refusing Closure
Narcissists often avoid providing closure at the end of a relationship. They may leave things unresolved, refusing to have an honest conversation about the breakup. This lack of closure can leave you feeling emotionally unsettled and unable to move on.
Share Your Thoughts:
What actions do you believe a narcissist typically takes at the end of a relationship? Share your insights with us in the comments below!
