5 Common Mind Games Narcissists Use In Romantic Relationships

Mind games are manipulative tactics used to control another person. In romantic relationships, individuals with narcissistic tendencies often use these psychological strategies to gain power and maintain control over their partner. Recognising these patterns is the first step toward protecting your emotional well-being. Here are five common mind games narcissists use in romantic relationships.

5 Common Mind Games Narcissists Use In Romantic Relationships

Learn to recognise five common mind games, including gaslighting and love bombing, to protect your emotional well-being and regain control.

Gaslighting

This is a particularly damaging form of emotional abuse where the narcissist makes their partner question their own reality, memory, or sanity. They might deny saying or doing something they clearly did, making you feel overly sensitive. 

Love Bombing

A narcissist will overwhelm you with excessive affection, flattery, and grand gestures. They may tell you you're their soulmate or that they've never met anyone like you, which can make it harder to recognise their manipulative behaviour later on.

The Silent Treatment

This tactic involves using silence to punish you. When there’s a conflict, a narcissist may refuse to talk to you, ignore your calls, or act as if you don't exist. This isn't about cooling down; it’s about exerting control and making you feel desperate for their attention.

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Triangulation

This mind game involves bringing a third person into a conflict to create jealousy, validate their own narrative, or pit you against someone else. For example, they might talk about how their ex or a new coworker understands them better than you do.

Victim Playing

A narcissist rarely takes responsibility for their actions. When they are confronted, they will skillfully shift the blame to you or someone else, or they will portray themselves as the victim. 

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