The Most Tell-Tale Sign of Narcissistic Abuse ~When Saving Face Matters Most

by Dr. Jeanne King, Ph.D.

We often hear about the signs of domestic abuse as though these were specific behaviors and traits of individuals who get their way through overpowering their partner. These tell-tale signs are indicators that lead us to see a larger picture of the danger inherent in abusive relationships.

To me, the most glaring of these signs can be noted in confronting the actual abusive behavior itself. For example, take a look at Suzette and Robert. (As usual, Suzette could be Robert and Robert could be Suzette.)

Confronting an Abusive Behavior Pattern

They are in a relatively new relationship of less than a year. And with each passing month, more and more narcissistic abuse signs rear their ugly head.

Suzette reaches a point in which she will no longer take Robert’s abusive controlling demands. Without and before even giving the dynamics a name, she points out Robert’s behavior that she cannot and will not subject herself to in her relationship with him.

The red flag sign is in his reaction. Watch this…

Suzette sends Robert an email essentially saying the following. I do not feel safe in this relationship with you as it is now. The reason is because…