Protecting Yourself From Narcissistic Relationships: How You Lose Yourself—and Find Your Way Back

Narcissistic relationships are relationship dynamics where one partner repeatedly centers their needs, image, or emotions at the expense of the other partner’s reality, boundaries, and wellbeing, often through cycles of intensity, devaluation, and control.

Most people do not enter narcissistic relationships expecting harm. They enter them feeling seen, chosen, and deeply connected. At first, the relationship may feel unusually meaningful, as though something long-sought has finally arrived. That early sense of recognition can be powerful enough to override caution, especially for those who value intimacy, empathy, and emotional depth.