A narcissist can fall in love with an ex-partner again, however, there are several factors to take into account, such as hidden motivations and changing circumstances that have led him to have feelings for that person again. Narcissists may sometimes attempt to reconnect with an ex-partner for selfish motivations, such as a need for attention, control, or the search for emotional supply.
In this sense, it should be noted that narcissistic personalities are characterized by the search for personal satisfaction and exacerbation of particular traits. Given this, it is possible that many love relationships become difficult and are interrupted due to differences that produce a breakup. In this Psychology-Online article, we tell you if a narcissist can fall in love with an ex again.
What a narcissist is like with his ex
The behavior of a narcissist towards his ex may vary depending on individual personality and circumstances specific to the relationship. However, there are certain patterns of behavior that are often seen in a narcissist’s interactions with her ex:
- Handling: Narcissists tend to be skilled manipulators. They may try to maintain control over her ex-partner by manipulating her emotions, making her feel guilty, or playing with her feelings. It can be demonstrated through threats, abuse, disregard for daily activities, unpleasant comments about one’s physical appearance, etc.
- Need for care: Narcissists crave constant attention and admiration. They may seek to maintain a connection with their ex to ensure that they remain the center of attention even after the breakup.
- Idealization and devaluation: In relationships with narcissists, a pattern of devaluation is often observed. In this context, they could alternate between praising and praising her ex-partner and then criticizing and belittling her.
- Control and possessiveness: Narcissists often have a need for control. They may attempt to maintain a degree of control over their ex-partner’s life even after the breakup, whether by online surveillance, tracking their movements, or attempting to influence their decisions.
- Mental games: Narcissists may engage their ex-partner in mind games and power dynamics, such as keeping them guessing about their intentions, creating confusion, or playing with their emotions.
Can a narcissist fall in love with his ex again?
A narcissist can fall in love again with an ex-partner. Still, it is important to understand that relationships with narcissists are often complex and can involve emotional dynamics and unhealthy behaviors.
What is a narcissist like with his ex? If a separation occurred, the narcissistic person you can try to rebuild the lost link, although this does not represent a certain and true intention of wanting to reestablish the loving bond. In this sense, these types of individuals are usually diagnosed based on their clinical characteristics.
Furthermore, considering that a lack of empathy is one of the most notable qualities of people with this type of personality, there is little chance that a narcissist can fall in love with his or her ex again.
How a narcissist acts when he wants to get back with his ex
When a narcissist wants to get back with their ex, their behavior can vary depending on their personality, the reason behind their renewed interest, and the dynamics of the past relationship. Here are some ways a narcissist might act when he tries to get back with his ex:
- Constant contact: When a narcissist falls in love with an ex again, he or she could intensify communication with her, seeking constant attention and validation. She may send messages, call frequently, or show up at places where she knows her ex will be.
- Personality change: On some occasions, the narcissist modifies his tone of voice, his body postures and his way of bonding with his previous partner to create an illusion. From this, a false expectation is produced that the person has truly changed.
- Seduction: The narcissist could use his charm and seduction skills to win back the attention of his ex-partner. He can be extremely flattering, express love and admiration, and make romantic gestures.
- Insistence: When faced with setting limits, a narcissist in love can react with disbelief and annoyance. In this sense, he will look for a way to overcome any obstacle that prevents him from achieving what he needs. In the case of an ex-partner, insistence can be generated through phone calls or appearances at work, among other situations.
- emotional manipulation: The narcissist could take advantage of his ex-partner’s emotions to generate sympathy and compassion. He may talk about her problems, difficulties, or past hurts to spark concern and a desire to help. In this article you will find more information about .
- Promises of change: If the narcissist loves his partner, it could promise significant changes in his behavior and personality. He can tell that he has learned from his mistakes and that he is willing to work on himself to be a better partner.
- Pressure and psychological manipulation: In more extreme cases, a narcissist might use psychological manipulation tactics to pressure their ex-partner to reconcile. This could include blaming her for the previous breakup, threatening extreme actions, or even resorting to intense emotional tactics. To know how to identify them, we recommend you read this article about .
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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Bibliography
- Trechera, JL, Vásquez De La Torre, M., Fernández, G., Morales, E. (2008). Empirical study of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Acta Colombiana de Psicología Magazine, 11 (2), 25-36.