Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Susana Verdinelli

Abstract

The phenomenon of narcissism is well-documented and has garnered much attention from the scientific community. However, a facet of this subject that has been largely unstudied involves the consequences that narcissistic relationships have on intimates. Typically, an individual with narcissistic traits (INT) most negatively affects the romantic partner. Still, there has been very little in the way of academic knowledge, understanding of partner experiences, or how to help from a mental health standpoint. Research has implied that partnering with an INT entails distinct forms of emotional abuse (EA), resulting in the development of unique psychological distress. This qualitative narrative study was designed to explore the experiences of and give voice to 29 former long-term partners of INTs, focusing on the course of the relationships and recovery, evolving self-views during that time, and meaning-making around relationship longevity. Data were collected via semi structured interviews and examined using thematic narrative analysis. Findings were informed by two associated models, that of investment and affect theories of social exchange, owing to the interactional nature of a romantic dyad. Results revealed five themes related to these distinctive relationship trajectories: intense foundation building, unveiling INT façades, cyclical EA and wooing phases, coping and recovery, followed by hindsight wisdom. Increased understanding of the partners’ experiences promotes positive social change by creating awareness and visibility of the impact on partners, contributing to the knowledge pool for psychological educators and clinicians, allowing the possibility of development and implementation of targeted clinical interventions, and providing future directions for study.

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