Part of understanding why some of us get stuck in narcissistic relationships despite the abuse isn’t just about unpacking the narcissistic personality but about acknowledging some universal responses to these kinds of dynamics. I am tired of people calling those of us who get stuck in these cycles “codependent” or “addicted” to the narcissistic relationship. It’s not that. If you have any empathy, have normal cognitive functioning, and were shaped by societal and cultural norms and realities, it is not surprising that you would get stuck.
