Once the narcissist knows they can push a little, they escalate.
At this stage, their behavior becomes more obvious:
- They become more critical.
- They begin ignoring your emotional needs.
- They start talking over you, dismissing you, or minimizing your concerns.
- They act superior.
- They expect more from you and give less in return.
And you—being human, kind, and emotionally invested—start rationalizing the behavior:
- “They’re just stressed.”
- “This is temporary.”
- “They don’t mean it.”
- “Maybe I am being too sensitive.”
- “Everyone has flaws.”
This internal dialogue is exactly what the narcissist depends on.
Because a narcissist isn’t looking for equality.
They are looking for compliance.
The moment you begin explaining away their behavior, they push harder.
3. The Shift: From Testing to Taking
This is the turning point in every relationship with a narcissist.
Once you’ve demonstrated tolerance for disrespect, the narcissist moves from push to control.
You may start noticing:
- Emotional withdrawal when you express needs
- Silent treatments as punishment
- Gaslighting (“I never said that”, “You’re imagining things”)
- Triangulation (bringing others into conflicts)
- Blame-shifting (“This is your fault”)
- Walking on eggshells around them
- Never being good enough, no matter how hard you try
This is where most people begin to feel confused.
Something feels off, but you can’t articulate it.
Why?
Because narcissistic manipulation isn’t loud.
It’s subtle.
It’s gradual.
It’s psychological erosion.
They push you until you begin pushing yourself.
4. The Emotional Decline: When You Start Shrinking
continue reading on the next page
Sharing is caring!