Having a relationship with a narcissistic person can be likened to an emotional rollercoaster — exciting initially, but draining over time. At first, narcissists can be shiny, charming, confident, and passionate — but they ultimately reveal their controlling, manipulative, and self-centered true selves. So, if you’ve asked yourself if your partner is acting normally or if you’re in a relationship with a narcissist, knowing the signs may help you see the interaction more clearly.

What Is Narcissistic Behaviours in Relationships?
Narcissism is a personality trait that is one a spectrum. However, narcissism is an extreme approach to confidence and self-assurance — narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) which is what we will be looking into here. Some key characteristics of a narcissistic partner include putting their own needs above all else, being unempathic, and manipulating situations to suit their needs and maintain control over situations. This can leave their partner feeling uncared for, unloved, and emotionally exhausted.

Six Signs That You Might Be Dating a Narcissist

Not every difficult partner is a narcissist, but if you spot repeated patterns of these behaviors, it may be a warning sign:
They’re Idris Elba, Exceptionally Charming at First
Many narcissists practice “love bombing,” or overwhelming their partner with attention, compliments and gifts. And they treat you like you are the most precious person alive, and deeply fall in love with you, but quickly become bored by you once they feel your obsession.

They Need Constant ValidationNarcissistic partners will often need constant admiration and praise to feed their ego. You may perceive them as self-assured, but they are only as good as the validation they receive. If you don't provide their endless need for praise, they can turn cold or aloof.

They Lack EmpathyPerhaps the most characteristic feature of a narcissist is the absence of empathy. They have difficulty understanding or acknowledging your emotions, leaving you feeling invalidated. They will dismiss, downplay, or even mock you when you express distress.

They Gaslight YouGaslighting is a psychological abuse tactic that narcissists use to make you question your own reality. They might deny action or words, distort the truth or accuse you of being the one overreacting, making you doubt your perception of reality.

They Blame You for EverythingResponsibility — Narcissists seldom accept responsibility for their actions. In the event of the relationship going poorly, they put the blame on you, which leads you to feel guilty over their faults.

They Have a High Sense of EntitlementA narcissistic partner may feel they’re entitled to special treatment and may treat the world as if it revolves around them. They want you to do everything FOR them — with nothing back.

They Are ControllingControl is an important characteristic narcissistic relationships. They might even exert control over who you spend time with, what clothes you wear or your profession. This control can begin subtly, but usually intensifies over time.

They Devalue You Over TimeGive it time, and the honeymoon resolution will wane where the narcissist will begin to criticize you. They criticize you and make you feel worthless — that weakens your self-esteem and makes you more dependent on them.

They Have Overblown Responses to CriticismNarcissists can’t take being criticized, even if it’s helpful information. If you call out their behavior, they might attack, stonewall you, or play the victim.

They Weaponise the Silent TreatmentWhen a narcissist does not resolve conflicts in a mature manner, they may take away affection or stop talking to you as a means to punish or control you. This lack of emotional sharing can lead you to feel anxious and desperate for their approval.

The Cycle of Narcissistic Relationships

There is a common trajectory to relationships with narcissists:
Idealization (Love Bombing): The narcissist absolutely idolizes you.
Devaluation: They start to criticize, control, and manipulate you to make you feel insecure.
Discard: When the person determines that you are no longer of use to them, they may detach themselves emotionally or abruptly leave the relationship.
Hoovering: If they see you moving on, they might attempt to suck you back in with apologies, empty promises or grand gesture — only to repeat all of the above.

What to Do if You Are in a Relationship with a Narcissist

If you see these signs in your relationship, here are ways to protect your emotional well-being:

Implement boundaries: Make clear what you will and will not accept. A narcissist will likely resist, but firm boundaries are essential for your well-being.

Seek Support: Find trusted friends, family members or a therapist who can help put things in perspective.

Detachment: When we realize that external change is unlikely, we can shift our focus on self-work.

Consider Walking Away: If the relationship is toxic and abusive, perhaps walking away is the best choice. Narcissists once identified rarely reform unless they initiate therapy, which they seldom do.

Final Thoughts


How do you feel when you are involved with a narcissist? Learn to spot the red flags, and once you understand how they act, you can begin to take steps to make better choices in your relationship. You deserve a relationship shrouded in respect, love and emotional safety — nothing less.

Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does a narcissist act in a relationship?
A narcissist frequently controls, manipulates, lacks empathy, and puts their own interests ahead of those of their spouse.

How to tell if a partner is narcissistic?
Keep an eye out for symptoms such as emotional disengagement, excessive demand for approval, gaslighting, and a lack of accountability.

How to handle a narcissistic partner?
Establish clear limits, give self-care a priority, look for help, and think about ending the relationship if it starts to become toxic.

Can a marriage survive with a narcissistic husband?
The only way a marriage can endure with a narcissistic husband is if the narcissist owns up to their behaviour and gets professional assistance; otherwise, the emotional toll may be too great.