Narcissists derive pleasure and satisfaction from various aspects of a relationship, primarily due to their deep-seated need for admiration, control, and validation. However, it's essential to note that not all narcissists are the same, and their behaviors can vary based on their individual traits and the specific type of narcissistic personality disorder they have. Here are some common behaviors and activities that narcissists may enjoy in a relationship:
Receiving Admiration: Narcissists crave constant admiration and adoration from their partners. They enjoy being the center of attention and receiving compliments about their appearance, achievements, or perceived superiority.
Manipulating and Controlling: Narcissists often enjoy manipulating and controlling their partners. They may engage in mind games, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation to assert power and dominance over their partner's emotions and actions.
Idealization and Devaluation: In the early stages of a relationship, narcissists often idealize their partners, putting them on a pedestal and making them feel special. However, as the relationship progresses, they may devalue their partners, criticizing, belittling, and undermining them to maintain control.
Creating Drama and Conflict: Some narcissists thrive on drama and conflict. They may provoke arguments and create tension to keep the relationship emotionally charged and maintain their partner's focus on them.
Love-Bombing: Love-bombing is an intense and overwhelming display of affection, attention, and gifts that narcissists use to quickly draw in their partners. It can create a sense of euphoria and emotional dependency in the partner.
Isolating the Partner: Narcissists may attempt to isolate their partners from friends and family to increase their control over them and reduce potential sources of support and validation.
Playing the Victim: When confronted with their harmful behaviors, some narcissists may turn the situation around and play the victim, making their partner feel guilty for holding them accountable.
Infidelity: Narcissists may engage in infidelity and emotional affairs to boost their ego and sense of desirability.
Exerting Financial Control: Some narcissists may use financial resources as a means of control, making their partner financially dependent on them.
Superiority and Grandiosity: Narcissists often display a grandiose sense of self-importance and superiority. They enjoy feeling more accomplished, intelligent, or attractive than their partners.
It's important to recognize that being in a relationship with a narcissist can be emotionally harmful and toxic. The narcissist's behavior may lead to a cycle of emotional abuse and trauma for their partner. If you suspect you are in a relationship with a narcissist or have experienced narcissistic abuse, seeking professional help and support is