Worthlessness Associated with Narcissistic Abuse
by: Todd Doyle, International Author of Healing the Shattered: Surviving Narcissistic Abuse
Feeling worthless is a common experience among individuals who have survived narcissistic abuse. Narcissistic individuals often use manipulation, exploitation, and control in their relationships to get their needs met and maintain a sense of power and control. This can leave their victims feeling confused, isolated, and unsure of their own worth.
The psychological manipulation and abuse that is often perpetrated by narcissistic individuals can erode an individual’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem. The abuser may engage in behaviors such as gaslighting, belittling, and criticizing in order to undermine the victim’s confidence and self-worth. They may also use tactics such as withholding love, affection, and validation, or manipulating the victim’s feelings and emotions in order to maintain control.
As a result, victims of narcissistic abuse may experience feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, and self-doubt. These feelings can be especially acute for victims who have been conditioned to prioritize the abuser’s needs and wants over their own, as they may feel that they have lost a sense of their own identity and autonomy.
The narcissist will make their victim feel worthlessness because the narcissist, themselves, feels worthless about their self. They live in a false facade of their own inner worthlessness and shame. They do not love themselves. They only love the image of their false facade. They take a sadistic sense of pleasure in making their victims feel worthlessness.
If you are experiencing feelings of worthlessness after surviving narcissistic abuse, it is important to recognize that the abuse is not your fault and that you are worthy of love, respect, and healthy relationships. Seeking support from friends, family, a therapist, or a support group can be helpful in navigating these feelings and rebuilding your sense of self-worth and self-esteem. Remember, you are not alone and there is help available.
