Another major factor is their lack of empathy. They cannot truly put themselves in someone else’s shoes, nor do they want to. While they understand that cheating would hurt them if it were done to them, they lack the ability to fully grasp or care about someone else’s emotions, making it easier for them to justify their actions.
Their sense of entitlement further drives this behavior. They believe they deserve special treatment, that they’re above others, and that typical rules don’t apply to them. This belief makes them feel justified in seeking excitement outside their primary relationship, thinking that their partner should simply accept it—or leave.
Boredom also plays a role; narcissists get bored with routine and crave new and exciting experiences. Cheating brings the thrill they seek and allows them to escape the monotony of a long-term relationship. Their craving for these new experiences provides an escape from their own negative self-narratives, allowing them to avoid self-reflection and accountability.
Narcissists also fear abandonment. Despite their outward confidence, they harbor deep insecurities that others may leave them. By keeping other relationships or people on standby, they reduce their fear of being left alone. It’s as if they need to secure a new source of validation before any old source threatens to disappear.
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