Member-only story
DOES A NARCISSIST MISS YOU AFTER YOU LEAVE?
By: Khalif Barkhadle,
Digital Journalist
Published On: 10th February 2025
The short answer? Yes, absolutely! But perhaps not for the reasons you would hope.
Here’s why.
Why They “Miss” You
Narcissists are often more interested in people as objects or possessions than as independent individuals. They “acquire” rather than build meaningful relationships, often focusing on the status, appearance, wealth, or social influence that you bring. This dynamic transforms the courtship process into a transactional one. They don’t just date or love—they acquire. And the more you offer, the more attractive you become.
Their initial pursuit can be charming and even intoxicating, using every tool in their arsenal to make you feel like the center of their world. The faster they secure a commitment, the better, as it closes the deal on what they view as a valuable acquisition.
Imagine a brand-new luxury car handed over to someone. That’s you in their eyes—a shiny, high-status possession that adds value to their self-image. If that “new car” boosts their ego enough, they might hold on to it for a long time, even indefinitely—until, of course, a more impressive “model” comes along.
Leaving? To Them, That’s a Crime
When you finally break free, the narcissist often feels as though you’ve stolen something valuable from them. They’re missing the benefits you…