Why Victims of Narcissistic Abuse develop PTSD
Even if they were not abused or neglected in childhood
When we met for an initial therapy consultation, Madelyn was a psychological and emotional wreck. Yet when she shared about her childhood in the Philippines and her subsequent exploits with travel and academia, it was clear that her life was filled with love and encouragement. She had a doctorate in chemistry and a supportive husband of over two decades. Her adult children were happy, responsive and ambitious.
So why was she plagued by insomnia, emotional dysregulation and paranoia? She was disembodied and labile, yet she had no treatment history or even any notable symptoms prior to the past year.
At the prompting of friends and family she sought therapeutic help.
As a therapist who typically treats complex trauma, Madelyn’s presentation fit the mold of someone plagued by systemic childhood abuse. However, the chronology of her life did not reveal abuse or neglect. It wasn’t until we touched on her relationship with the new CEO where she was employed, that it all fell into place. Her distress was rooted in narcissistic abuse.
Initially the ostensible solidarity and engagement of Madelyn’s female boss was motivating. She felt galvanized to work with another successful…
