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Writer's pictureTherese the Counselor

How to recognize the signs in a narcissistic-abuse-victim-relationship.

The effects of Narcissistic abuse can vary depending on the short or long term range of abuse and how much one has endured in this type of narcissistic-abuse-victim relationship.


Narcissistic abuse is a type of emotional abuse that is inflicted by a person who does not really love themselves. This person has an idealized impression of themselves that they admire. They try to cover up the shame that they feel by working hard to inflict pain and damage to loved ones and destroying relationships as a defense mechanism.


Paper with the words "A culture of narcissism."
Culture of narcissism

Narcissistic abuse victims may be abused mentally, physically, spiritually, or verbally.


A person that has Narcissistic Personality Disorder, or NPD, is very likely to lack empathy and have an inflated sense of self. They quickly insert themselves into your life with little or no boundaries.


How to recognize the signs of Narcissistic abuse


Examples of Narcissistic abuse can include bullying, criticizing, belittling, uses shaming, blaming and criticizing. The Abuser tends to interrupt, block, and name call, often undermining their victim. Additionally, they tend to isolate their abusers from their friends and family making it hard to leave the relationship. Narcissistic Abusers also gaslight their victims. They are skilled in manipulating their victims into getting what they want.

A narcissistic-abuse-victim-relationship could have the victim-

  • Walking on eggshells

  • Putting aside basic needs and desires including physical safety to please the Abuser.

  • Having health issues that may start representing their emotional turmoil

  • Developing a pervasive sense of mistrust

  • Having an increased sense of hopelessness, suicidal Ideation, or developing self harming tendencies

  • Increasingly self isolating

  • Comparing themselves to others or blaming themselves for the abuse

  • Amplifying negative self talk with a tendency to self sabotage

  • Fearing success as a result of the conditioning from their Abusers

  • Protecting their Abusers and even gaslighting themselves. (Arabi, August 2017)


Over time, the victim in the relationship can start to experience an emotional toll on their mental health that could lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and even trauma. They may struggle with self esteem issues, feelings of worthlessness and powerlessness in the relationship. Victims will need to seek help and support to break free from the cycle of abuse.


If you are a victim-What can you do to start the journey toward healing?


Set boundaries- It is okay to say "NO" to things that do not align with your values and communicating your needs and expectations

Educate yourself- Look out for signs in new relationships by recognizing warning signs

Seek professional help- A mental health Specialist especially one who specializes in abuse and trauma

Join a support group of victims for Narcissistic abuse victims- It can help with validation and a sense of community


Shahida Arabi, MA. 11 signs youre the victim of Narcissistic Abuse (August 21, 2017), PsychCentral article. 11 Signs Youre the Victim of Narcissistic Abuse (psychcentral.com)



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Guest
5 days ago
Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

😂🤣😁

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Guest
6 days ago
Rated 3 out of 5 stars.

Once a Narcissistic-always a narcissistic.

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Guest
Oct 03
Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

.

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Guest
Oct 03
Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

Facts!😃 .

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Guest
Oct 03
Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

Narcissistic men and women do exist

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