Anatomy of Abuse
How predators snare their prey
Episodic ruptures were peppered throughout their tumultuous relationship, but when seemingly benign texting commenced during the pandemic, Megan began to question if she was correct in concluding that her ex was a full-blown malignant narcissist. In fact, their friendly exchanges caused her to ruminate over how the early stages of their courtship were not defined by a predictable form of grandiose love-bombing.
When push came to shove, she rationalized to herself there were signs of narcissistic traits but not full-blown disorder. In a similar manner, she also began to question if the stabilization she recently achieved in trauma-informed therapy was the necessary balm to their prior incendiary dynamics. After all, she reasoned, her incessant need to interrogate was certainly a valid source of annoyance and provocation. Yet mostly, truth be told, recollections of the laughter they shared and the alignment of their lifestyles and worldviews tugged at her heart.
Consequently, unconvinced of the threat involved and curious as to whether they had a chance, she took the bait and picked up where they left off. Indeed it appeared as if things were different. After all, he was contrite, even reassuring. He evidenced constraint and attentiveness. What ignited vitriol in the past was now met with reflection.
