The Trauma Bond Trap: Why Narcissists Keep Coming Back
This black and white thinking, this absolute idealisation and devaluation, and the dependency for attention, admiration or adulation, which we collectively call as supply, the enabling that they want other people to do so. This is their trauma bond.
Ever wondered why narcissists seem to cling to their victims like a magnet? In this episode of 'Heal from Within after Narcissistic Abuse with Danish', Danish Bashir, a seasoned expert in narcissistic abuse recovery, dives deep into the concept of trauma bonding. He answers a client's burning question about whether narcissists can also become trauma bonded to their victims. Spoiler alert: they can, and it's a tangled web of idealization and devaluation that keeps them hooked.
Danish starts by explaining how narcissists initially put their victims on a pedestal, seeing them as flawless beings. But as reality sets in and the victim's imperfections become apparent, the narcissist's perception flips from all good to all bad. This black-and-white thinking creates a powerful psychological attachment known as a trauma bond. A trauma bond is more than just a toxic relationship; it's a cycle of fear, manipulation, and dependency.
Narcissists expertly create these bonds to keep their victims as sources of 'narcissistic supply'—the attention, admiration, and validation they crave. This dependency makes it hard for both parties to break free, even when the relationship turns sour. Why don't narcissists just discard their victims? Danish explains that narcissists aim to extract every ounce of emotional and psychological energy from their victims before moving on.
They keep coming back, or 'hoovering', because they need that supply, even if they hate admitting it. For those trapped in such bonds, Danish offers practical advice on breaking free. Recognizing the cycle of idealization and devaluation is the first step. Going no contact, seeking therapy, and learning to love and value oneself are crucial steps towards recovery.
Tune in to understand the mechanics of the narcissist's trauma bond and gain insights on how to reclaim your life from their grip. This episode is a lifeline for anyone feeling trapped in the confusing and painful cycle of narcissistic abuse.