It is not only the average people that are vulnerable to complex relationships but also empaths who are those individuals with such a strong ability of feeling and understanding others’ emotions. One of the most dangerous dynamics that can play out is that between empaths and narcissists.
This relationship is horribly toxic and emotionally exhausting despite the drastic difference in emotional and self-centered nature. In this article, we elaborate on the details of the dangerous amours between empaths and narcissists, looking into the dynamics, signs of danger, and ways to stay above water.
Relationships Between Empaths And Narcissists
The Empathic Nature:
Empaths are people who have an incredible ability to share and internalize the sadness of others. They tend to make other’s needs a priority, demonstrate greater emotional sensitivity, and, more often than not, actually feel a desire to provide support and understanding.
The Narcissistic Dynamic:
Contrastingly, narcissists are characterized by an egocentric and narcissistic attitude. They seek praise, are not sensitive and try to take advantage of others to satisfy their own needs. The dance between the empaths and the narcissists leads to the situation where the empath is the giver and the narcissist is the taker.
Attraction and Magnetism:
The first years of the relationship between empaths and narcissists are usually characterized by magnetic attraction. The empaths might be attracted to the charisma, confidence, and charm of the narcissist while the narcissist senses an opportunity to take advantage of the empath’s ability to feel the emotions of others for their own benefit.
The Empath’s Giving Nature:
Empaths provide natural care, sometimes at the expense of their own needs. This altruistic strategy can be used by the narcissists when they seek to take advantage of the empathy of an empath under the guise of receiving help and emotional support.
Book to Read: Empath and Narcissist: A Practical Guide to Understand the Nature of Empathy and Narcissism, Protect Yourself From Energy Vampires and Sociopaths and Heal from Narcissistic Relationships , By Mia Warren
Red Flags in the Relationship:
Emotional Drain: The narcissist would always need validation and support but would not give the empath anything in return. This would leave the empath feeling empty and emotionally drained.
Lack of Reciprocity: The relationship becomes lopsided, where the empath’s only reward is to continue to give while the narcissist literally does not give anything back in return.
Devaluation and Criticism: Narcissists may strip down the empath by putting down their self-esteem and making them depend on the narcissist for validation.
Isolation: Through alienating empaths to their social circle, narcissists establish more control over the relationship.
Navigating the Fine Line Between Empaths And Narcissists
Setting Boundaries: Empaths must set and maintain healthy boundaries that prevent emotional manipulation.
Self-Reflection: Empaths should analyse themselves to identify manipulative patterns and know what they need within the relationship.
Seeking Support: Seeking help and support from a close group of advisors who can provide empaths with a new point of view and a chance to understand the nature of the relationship better is critical.
Educating Yourself: Knowing the characteristics of narcissism and the nature of the relationship dynamics is essential for empaths to get out of the vicious circle.
Prioritizing Self-Care: Empaths should take good care of themselves, practice self-care, and develop a strong sense of self to resist emotional control of narcissists.
The interaction of empaths and narcissists is a fine balance that necessitates consciousness, tenacity and self-empowerment. Using the red flags, boundaries, and ensuring their self-preservation, empaths can avoid this risky formula and restore their emotional independence. The emancipation from its vicious cycle enables them to develop useful empathic relationships that promote personal development and emotional well-being.
