What Happens When You Ignore A Narcissist?

* I generally write using the pronouns he/him when referring to narcissists, but females are just as likely to be narcissists or exhibit narcissistic traits. So please don't think just because article uses the word him or he that it could not be a woman in that same role.

Within contemporary society, it is true that narcissism is more prevalent than ever, and while the exact reason for this is unknown, we are understanding more than ever how much damage this toxic trait can do within our interpersonal relationships.

What Happens When You Ignore A Narcissist

As such there is a lot of information online regarding the signs of narcissism, how to combat narcissism in relationships, and what to do if you suspect you are a victim of it.

But can narcissism really just be ignored, or is it much more insidious than that?

Can Narcissism Be Ignored?

In essence, this is actually the best way to combat a narcissistic person, and it can not only be an effective method for protecting yourself from their behavior, but also to shut them down generally within society.

What Do Narcissists Want?

To best combat narcissism, we first need to understand what a narcissist actually is, and what it is they need.

Generally speaking, narcissism ranges from being mildly vain and self obsessed, to be more pathological, controlling, and selfishly motivated.

The whole thing is a spectrum, and some levels are far more normal than others. However, when it comes to the high end narcissists, what they really want is:

Control
Power
Their needs prioritized
Subservience from others
Attention

There are of course more specific other things they want – and these depend on the person – but these are the general things that narcissistic people crave from those closest to them.

The Impact Of Ignoring Narcissists

As you might imagine, when the above mentioned needs are ignored or otherwise unfulfilled, this can have a distinct impact upon the narcissistic individual.

They Will Work Harder

The first thing that will generally happen when you ignore a narcissist is that they will pursue you more and try harder to get the outcome they want.

This might sound scary, and in actual fact, it is something that you should be aware of – expressing the right amount of caution to ensure you are protected and safe.

They Might Lose Their Temper

Narcissists are driven by their egos – it is the lifeblood that fuels what they do.

As such, when that ego becomes bruised by someone turning them down or not giving them what they want, then they might become aggressive or bad tempered.

This is when you also need to be cautious. Do not antagonize the other person, simply ignore them.

They Will React Negatively

If there is one thing that you need to realize about narcissistic people, it’s that when you stop giving them what they want, they will begin to act negatively towards you and the situation.

This is textbook narcissistic behavior, and is designed to emotionally manipulate the other person into doing what they want.

This might be the silent treatment, verbal abuse, or even more serious retaliations – and it is important to bear these in mind and react accordingly.

They Will Try Manipulation

They will also try to manipulate you in some way.

As mentioned, this could be the silent treatment, or it could be verbal or mental abuse to try and bring you back around to their way of thinking.

The important thing is to stay strong and keep them out.

You have fought hard for freedom from the situation, so letting them back in now is the worst mistake you could make.

They Will Face The Consequences

Ultimately though, they will have to suffer the consequences of their actions – which in this case was the loss of someone special, and the ensuing loneliness that now has to follow.

This might sound harsh, but remember, it is an important lesson for them to learn, and will mark a fresh start for both parties to move forward and embrace change.

Why Is It Worth It?

It is also important to remember that it really is worth it, and that ignoring the narcissist is not only beneficial, but also the only option.

You Will Have Freedom

Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that, once you have broken contact and ignored the narcissistic person, you are now free from their influence.

While it might not always seem that simple – such as if the person is a family member – you should at least take comfort in the fact that you have created a protective bubble between you and them, stopping them from taking control and attacking you further.

You Will Have Space

After an unhealthy relationship and a nasty breakup, it is important for both parties to have space – space in which you can grow and develop and learn to prioritize your own mental health once more.

Things Will Be Better

You have saved yourself, and now things are looking up for you. You deserved better from your relationship, and now it is time to go out there and have fun again.

This means taking care of yourself, treating yourself to what you deserve, and meeting nice people with positive intentions. The world is a big place, and not everyone is a narcissist.

Self Growth Leads To Self Worth

It is important to work on yourself. This means doing things that make you happy, fulfilled, and content.

This is how we grow as people and become strong, and then with this strength, we can foster renewed self worth to take forward in future relationships.

Final Thoughts

And there we have it, everything you need to know about narcissism, and what happens when you ignore a narcissistic person.

It’s true that narcissism is perhaps one of the most common toxic trait within contemporary relationships, and one that can manifest itself in many different ways.

Luckily though, there are numerous ways to become aware of the various traits, and combat them before they take effect.

So if you are worried about potential narcissistic behavior, then be sure to take note of these signs. Something tells me you won’t be disappointed!

Continue Reading About Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Helpful Resources

Recommended Reading

What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

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