What an Intimate, Loving Relationship Looks Like vs. Love Bombing
With closeness, respect, and consideration, healthy couples can be vulnerable, trust and care for each other. Those who have been diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder, according to the Cleveland Clinic, lack empathy.2 They’re self-centered and demand admiration. They also have an outsized sense of entitlement.
Dr. Keller notes, “In a loving partnership, one is allowed to have discussions about changing their mind, ask for time, and confide in their partner their fears and concerns. Then hopefully, they can subsequently come up with solutions together.”
What to Do After You’ve Been Love Bombed
Know that you’re not alone. A study3on living with pathological narcissism found difficulties within the context of their close relationships.
Researchers found that not only was the grandiosity detrimental to partners and relatives, but the vulnerable aspect of pathological narcissism which includes instability, insecurity, and rage affected their partners in an insidious way.
If you’ve expressed discomfort and were unable to draw boundaries with this love bomber, connect with friends and loved ones. It’s never too early to seek out help from a mental health counselor to guide you. Remember to give yourself kindness and forgiveness, too.
The antidote to being love-bombed in the future says Dr. Keller is “to know your own self worth, to love yourself, to keep one eye open in the relationship, and try not to be so blinded that you don't learn enough about your partner.”
A Word From Verywell
Love bombing also happens in friendships and other relationships as well. But if you are being love-bombed by a romantic partner and find that the relationship is becoming more abusive, help is available.
If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential assistance from trained advocates.
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