10 Stages Of A Narcissistic Relationship

A narcissistic relationship is one in which either or both partners have a high sense of self-importance and tries to overpower the other partner in all decisions.

The disorder is prevalent mainly due to a lack of empathy and a selfish attitude. A narcissistic relationship is a toxic relationship that destroys the bonding of love and care.

Here are ten stages of a narcissistic relationship

Look for these signs to see if you are in a toxic relationship.

Stage 1 – Love and Commitment

We all start with a positive note, and when love blooms, everything seems perfect. The sad part is that selfish people can be charming and present optimistically.

If they want to lure you, they do it quickly by presenting themselves in a manner that makes you fall in love with them.

Stage 2 – Dependency

A narcissist now knows you have fallen for him, and now he will create a dependency. It is the second stage of a narcissistic relationship.

Dependency can be emotional and, at times, financial too. You can be independent, but now you feel that your life is not worth it without this person.

For a narcissist, all these are pre-determined moves.

Stage 3 – Criticism

Most conflicts happen when one or both partners start criticizing each other, and both want to push their ways. A narcissist will look for small loopholes and blame you.

Most of the time, a narcissist will be hostile and aggressive with bouts of reprimand.

Stage 4 – False Accusation

One of the significant stages of a narcissistic relationship is a constant outburst of anger and, most of the time, false accusations.

It can be a minor issue blown out of proportion intentionally. The main aim is to put you on the back foot, make you feel bad, and prove your own’s self-importance.

Stage 5 – Excessive Anger

We know it is difficult to do things you want to, and when you are dealing with outbursts of anger, it is even more difficult.

Excessive anger over petty issues is a known trait of a narcissist toxic relationship. It can be alarming for you if you are at the receiving end.

Stage 6 – Remorse

Even if the relations are estranged, love and communication can improve things. If things are not working out, you can leave the relationship.

However, in a narcissistic relationship, there will be excessive remorse if you try to move out.

The feeling of guilt is primarily fake, just an attempt to keep the narcissistic relationship alive.  

Stage 7 – Gaslighting

You may have a broad idea about the problem but go deeper into it. Gaslighting is when you are made to believe things are going wrong because of your actions or attitude.

You see bickering and argumentative behavior, but the deeper reason is that you live in a toxic relationship.

Gaslighting is a manipulation technique used cautiously by a narcissist.

Stage 8 – Establish Control

Losing your partner can be a stressful event in your life, but never lose your calm. You will feel vulnerable in a narcissistic relationship. No matter how ill a person treats you, you will think you cannot live without that person.

It may also lead to Stockholm Syndrome, where you will not have aversive feelings for the person but will feel good about that person.

Stage 9 – Lack of Self-Identity

Most problems are selfish, but what if you are losing your self-respect in a big way? In this stage, you can assume you have lost your identity in a toxic relationship.

You are in a vicious cycle and one of the most detrimental phases in a narcissistic relationship.

Stage 10 – Addiction

The last stage can lead to depression or addiction and drug abuse. Professional help is an excellent way to remove you from a narcissistic relationship.

Professional counselling will provide all the details that might be enough to tackle the situation.

Conclusion

There will be a feeling of isolation and bitterness if you are in a toxic relationship with a narcissistic. The important fact is you cannot control anyone narcissistic.

Sometimes it is essential to acknowledge the truth and move on with your life. However, we suggest you get professional help.