As a psychological expert with extensive experience in the study of personality disorders, I am well-versed in the intricacies of narcissistic abusers. A narcissistic abuser is an individual who exhibits a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. They often engage in behaviors that are manipulative, controlling, and demeaning to others, all in service of maintaining their inflated self-image.

The initial narcissistic abuse typically starts with subtle forms of psychological manipulation, such as belittling comments that undermine the self-esteem of the target. This is a form of gaslighting, where the victim is made to feel as though their perceptions and feelings are incorrect or unreliable. Over time, the abuser's behavior escalates to more overt forms of emotional and psychological abuse, such as contempt, which involves treating the victim with disdain and disrespect. This can manifest in various ways, including mocking, insulting, or demeaning the victim in front of others.

Ignoring behavior is another tactic used by narcissistic abusers to assert control and power. By ignoring the victim, the abuser communicates that the victim's needs and feelings are unimportant, further eroding their sense of self-worth. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness for the victim, as they struggle to feel seen and valued in the relationship.

Adultery is not uncommon in relationships with narcissistic abusers. The abuser may engage in extramarital affairs as a means of asserting their desirability and power, often using these affairs to manipulate and control the victim. They may flaunt their infidelity or use it as a tool to instill jealousy and insecurity in the victim.

Triangulation involves the abuser forming relationships with third parties to create a sense of competition or rivalry. This can involve pitting two people against each other or using one person to make the other feel jealous or inadequate. Triangulation is a form of emotional manipulation that serves to keep the victim off-balance and dependent on the abuser for validation.

Sabotage is another method used by narcissistic abusers to maintain control. This can involve undermining the victim's success or happiness in various areas of life, such as work, friendships, or personal goals. The abuser may actively work to sabotage the victim's efforts, ensuring that they remain dependent and unable to achieve independence or success without the abuser's approval.

In some cases, the abuse can escalate to physical abuse. While not all narcissistic abusers resort to physical violence, the potential for escalation is always present, particularly when the abuser feels threatened or challenged.

At the **core of aread more >>

The initial narcissistic abuse begins with belittling comments and grows to contempt, ignoring behavior, adultery, triangulation (forming any relationship triangles), sabotage, and, at times, physical abuse. At the core of a narcissist is a combination of entitlement and low self-esteem.read more >>