The narcissist's controlling, crazy-making behaviors have left you feeling afraid, depressed, and alone.
Loss
of identity is unavoidable after being in an emotionally abusive and
manipulative relationship.
The
narcissist has several resources in their toolbox for achieving this goal:
Trauma Bonding:
Rollercoasters of chronic fighting (you’re always the bad guy, of course) and fleeting moments of artificial compassion to solidify a bond based on trauma. Other than responsibilities like children and bills, these brief moments of seeming love are what keep you from leaving.
Cognitive Empathy:
Objectively empathizing with you for
the sole purpose of manipulating your thoughts. This empathy without compassion
is a prerequisite for torture.
Imposing Guilt and Worthlessness:
When you attempt to state an opinion
– even on benign things like clothing – you’re wrong. And even if you’re not
wrong, the mere act of having an opinion will offend the narcissist. This leads
you to believe your thoughts are wrong and you must listen to the narcissist
for guidance.
A
total loss of identity doesn’t happen overnight. But over time, the narcissist
gradually implements these tactics to slowly chip away at both your perception
of self and the world around you.
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