The number one mistake you can make is judging victims of narcissistic abuse as antisocial when they avoid social gatherings. It’s not that they hate people; it’s just that, at some point, people became a source of pain rather than comfort. Social events, which are supposed to be fun and relaxing, can feel more like a battlefield. Crowds can be overwhelming, and conversations can feel fake. It’s not about being rude or distant; it’s about self-protection.
Today, we’ll dive into why victims of narcissistic abuse tend to withdraw from social gatherings and what’s going on in their minds. Are you ready for number one?
Trust Issues
When you’ve been manipulated and betrayed by someone you trusted, it’s hard to believe that anyone else will be different. You might wonder if people are kind because they care or just want something from you. Dr. Leslie Becker-Phelps, author of Insecure in Love, explains that past emotional wounds can make you hyper-aware of potential betrayal, even when none exists. It’s not that you don’t want to trust; it’s that your brain has been trained to expect the worst. To avoid getting hurt again, you steer clear of those situations. The problem is that isolation only reinforces those fears. The more you avoid socializing, the more your mind convinces you that people can’t be trusted. Psychologist Dr. Emma Seppala, in her book The Happiness Track, points out that meaningful social connections are essential for healing. However, victims of narcissistic abuse often struggle to let people in. It’s okay to take your time, but remember that not everyone is out to manipulate you. Some people genuinely want to know you for who you are, not for what they can take from you.
Fear of Being Judged
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