Love Bombing to Silent Treatment: "A Narcissists Personality and How They Treat their Partners!"

 

When a narcissist falls in love-

it often begins with an intoxicating whirlwind of affection, admiration, and grand gestures. They idealize their partner, showering them with attention, making them feel like the center of their universe. This phase—often called love bombing—can feel like a dream, as the narcissist appears deeply devoted, passionate, and intensely focused on their partner’s happiness.

However, this love is conditional—built on their own needs, desires, and fantasies rather than genuine emotional connection. As time passes, cracks begin to form. The narcissist may start criticizing, controlling, or withdrawing affection, especially when their partner no longer meets their unrealistic expectations. Their love can turn into manipulation, where guilt, gaslighting, and emotional distancing replace the initial warmth.

True love is about mutual respect, vulnerability, and emotional support, but for a narcissist, love is often transactional—a means to fulfill their own validation rather than a shared experience. Their partner may feel confused, exhausted, and emotionally drained, constantly trying to regain the affection that once felt so overwhelming.

A narcissistic personality is characterized by a pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) often exhibit the following traits:

• Exaggerated sense of self-importance – They believe they are superior and expect special treatment.

• Preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, or beauty – They often imagine themselves as extraordinary individuals.

• Sense of entitlement – They expect others to cater to their needs without question.

• Exploitative behavior – They use people for personal gain without considering their feelings.

• Lack of empathy – They struggle to recognize or care about the emotions of others.

• Need for excessive admiration – They crave validation and praise to maintain their self-image.

• Arrogance and superiority – They often belittle others to elevate themselves.

• Fragile self-esteem – Despite their outward confidence, they are easily hurt by criticism.

Narcissistic traits can vary in intensity, and not everyone with these characteristics has NPD. You can explore more about narcissistic personality traits here and here.

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