Part 12/13:
To break free from this cycle, the victim must rebuild their "immune system"—restoring external relationships, reality testing, and a sense of self that isn’t intertwined with the narcissist's narrative. Without this, the victim risks becoming fully psychologically dependent, losing their autonomy and becoming a part of the narcissist’s collective fantasy, akin to "file zoo"—a state of full emotional and psychological captivity.
Conclusion: Navigating Narcissistic Relationships
Understanding the mechanics of narcissistic manipulation—delusions, projection, isolation, and dependence—is vital for those caught in such relationships. Differentiating healthy self-interest from pathological narcissism enables individuals to recognize when boundaries are being violated.