Does your relationship show signs of a narcissistic abuse cycle?

On Behalf of | Dec 28, 2022 | Domestic Violence |

It is prevalent for people to sometimes show narcissistic tendencies across the United States, including Alaska. But that does not always equate to narcissistic personality disorder or the narcissistic abuse cycle.

What is narcissism?

Narcissism is extreme self-importance with a lack of empathy for others, and these people who exhibit narcissism do not understand their behavior’s effect on others. But narcissism is a trait; therefore, it varies from exhibiting narcissistic tendencies to having a narcissistic personality disorder.

What is narcissistic personality disorder?

So, you can have narcissistic tendencies without having a narcissistic personality disorder. It is a personality disorder in which people have an inflated idea of their importance. People are often selfish and arrogant, but people with this condition take it to an extreme. As a result, a therapist will be able to diagnose this disorder.

What is the narcissistic abuse cycle?

The narcissistic abuse cycle can happen without someone having a narcissistic personality order and only exhibiting narcissistic tendencies. The stages of the narcissistic abuse cycle go in this order:

  1. Indealization: makes you feel valued and loved while putting you on a pedestal
  2. Devaluation: makes you feel like you have done something wrong
  3. Repetition: continues a cycle of idealization and devaluation
  4. Rejection: discards you quickly and bluntly

Also, you could wake up to the realization that this relationship is toxic and end it. This cycle of emotional abuse happens because narcissists often try to deflect their feelings onto others and are not likely to see their actions as problems.

What options do you have?

Recognizing that your relationship is in a narcissistic abuse cycle can be difficult, especially if it is a parent-child relationship. But recognizing the cycle is the first step. The following steps would be to set clear boundaries, maintain a record, and keep trusted friends close. And you will have to decide if it is a relationship worth keeping.

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