June 2024

www.richtaylorcoaching.com rich@richtaylorcoaching.com FB: @richtaylorcoaching IG: @richtaylorcoaching NaRcIssIstIc BEHaVIOR WItHIN a RELatIONsHIP JUNE 2024 Narcissistic behavior in a relationship can be deeply damaging and distressing for the partner involved. Narcissism is characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. When these traits manifest within the context of a romantic relationship, they can lead to a range of negative outcomes. One of the hallmark behaviors of narcissism in a relationship is an excessive focus on oneself. The narcissistic partner may constantly seek attention, admiration, and validation from their significant other, often at the expense of the other person’s needs and feelings. They may dominate conversations, steer discussions back to themselves, and become dismissive or impatient when their partner tries to share their own thoughts or feelings. Furthermore, narcissists often have an inflated sense of entitlement. They may expect special treatment, privileges, or unwavering loyalty from their partner, without reciprocating these behaviors. This can create a dynamic where the narcissistic partner feels entitled to exploit or manipulate their partner to meet their own needs, while showing little regard for the other person’s well-being. Lack of empathy is another prominent feature of narcissistic behavior in relationships. The narcissistic partnermaystruggletoempathizewiththeirsignificant other’s emotions or experiences, dismissing their concerns as unimportant or overreacting. This can leave the partner feeling invalidated, misunderstood, and emotionally neglected. Manipulation and control are common tactics used by narcissists to maintain power and dominance in the relationship. They may employ gas lighting techniques to distort their partner’s perception of reality, making them doubt their own thoughts and feelings. Additionally, narcissists may engage in emotional manipulation, guilt-tripping, or withholding affection to maintain control over their partner’s behavior. Over time, being in a relationship with a narcissist can erode the partner’s self-esteem and sense of self-worth. Constant criticism, invalidation, and manipulation can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. The partner may also feel trapped in a cycle of trying to meet the narcissist’s ever-changing demands and expectations, while their own needs and desires are consistently overlooked. WHat NaRcIssIsM LOOKs LIKE UtILIZING a sIMPLE scENaRIO: You and your partner are playing catch. You toss the ball, symbolizing your affection, to them. They catch it, but instead of throwing it back—representing their love—they hold onto it, keeping the affection you offered. You try again, but the pattern persists. You give love, but receive none in return. Only when you decide to leave does your partner offer any affection, pulling you back in by tossing the ball back. Then the cycle repeats. They control you by withholding love until you’re ready to walk away. Indeed, it’s like catching a fleeting glimpse of the love you crave, only to have it swiftly snatched away once you are back in the control. To make matters worse, you witness your partner interact differently with a friend. They exchange throws, demonstrating reciprocity. You’re left questioning what you lack, why your partner doesn’t reciprocate with you. You blame yourself, assuming fault and responsibility. It’s a deeply troubling pattern that often characterizes relationships with narcissists. HOW caN It BE addREssEd? It’s important for individuals who find themselves in a relationship with a narcissist to recognize the signs of narcissistic behavior and seek support. This may involve setting boundaries, seeking therapy/life coaching for oneself or as a couple, or ultimately, considering ending the relationship if it becomes emotionally or psychologically harmful. Recovery from a relationship with a narcissist can be challenging, but with time, support, and self-care, individuals can rebuild their self-esteem and move forward towards healthier relationships. 7