Why do narcissists have affairs?
Olivia Hensley
Updated on March 07, 2026
Narcissists are control freaks. Having a relationship implies a give-and-take and a train of compromises which the narcissist acutely interprets to mean a loss of control over his life.To reassert control, the narcissist initiates other relationships in which he dictates the terms of engagement (love affairs).
Are narcissists usually cheaters?
Most narcissists will cheat on anyone they're with, especially when the relationship or marriage is already well-established. It's also crucial to understand that being cheated on by a narcissist doesn't mean that you're less intelligent than they are.Do narcissists enjoy cheating?
It has also been suggested that narcissists have a greater tendency toward infidelity. Study authors Ahmet Altınok and Nurseven Kılıç set out to explore the interplay between narcissism, intention to cheat, and relationship satisfaction.Can a narcissist be faithful?
Loyal. Narcissists require loyalty. That being said, the loyalty is only one way. Many narcissists demand loyalty from their partners, while hypocritically betraying the relationship themselves; sometimes by even cheating on their partners, with no remorse.How do narcissists react to infidelity?
The fear that vulnerable narcissists may experience when threatened with infidelity, real or imagined, may lead them to be preoccupied and hypersensitive, creating distance and insecurity in the effort to regain intimacy and trust.What kind of woman does a narcissist marry?
A narcissistic man is attracted to someone who looks beautiful and accomplished—not because they like that person, but because her appearance and accomplishments fuel his ego. However, a narcissist also wants a woman who isn't too confident because he wants to run the show.How narcissists treat their exes?
Narcissists are well known for playing mind games because they help to reinforce their hold over their current or past victims. They'll resort to love bombing, self-esteem reduction, and emotional manipulation to keep their ex under the thumb.How do you know if a narcissist is cheating?
Narcissist Cheating Signs – 8 Signs a Narcissist is Cheating on You
- Early on, they boldly declare that they would never lie or cheat. ...
- They often cancel plans last minute or you don't hear from them for days at a time. ...
- Their social media use is shady. ...
- Other people warn you about them. ...
- They lie compulsively.
How do narcissists treat their girlfriends?
Narcissists view partners as trophies under their power and may expect partners to show deference and adoring behavior throughout the relationship. Manipulation of a partner is emotional abuse, and narcissists resort to some pretty low behaviors if they feel that they are losing their hold on a partner.What a narcissist does at the end of a relationship?
At the end of a relationship, narcissists may become combative, passive-aggressive, hostile, and even more controlling. People with NPD often fail to understand other people's needs and values. They are hyper focused on their egos, but do not account for how their actions affect others.How do you know if a narcissist is finished with you?
How to Know if a Narcissist Is Finished with You
- They show no emotion.
- They criticize you constantly.
- They blame you for everything.
- They're always irritated or angry.
- They pick fights over trivial things.
- They take advantage of you.
- They withhold physical affection.
- They accuse you of cheating.
What attachment style is most likely to cheat?
An avoidant or anxious attachment style might make someone more likely to cheat. Attachment styles could also predict future behavior when it comes to infidelity, Weiser said. The three attachment styles are anxious, avoidant, and secure.Do narcissists cheat vulnerable?
Narcissists and sociopaths are notorious for engaging in both emotional and physical infidelity. Not only are narcissists players and pick-up artists in the dating world, they are also serial cheaters in relationships.Do narcissists want you to chase?
Yes, narcissists do want you to chase them. It makes them feel more desired. For narcissists, relationships are more like a business transaction. They love to be the center of attention.Why do narcissists go back to their ex?
But as clinical psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula points out, narcissists often have a habit of staying in contact with their exes in a way that is solely about their own needs. "The central motivator for narcissists is validation," she explains. "And an ex is often a really interesting place to get it...Can narcissists stop cheating?
Many different factors can contribute to infidelity, but psychologists have identified one personality trait that many cheaters seem to share. Research shows a correlation between narcissism and infidelity. By recognizing the signs of narcissism, individuals can work to prevent infidelity in their relationships.Does a narcissist regret losing you?
Realize that people with NPD can't feel regret. Come to terms with the fact that you can't make them feel a certain way. Push yourself to move on because the narcissist won't miss you—they'll miss whatever they were getting from you. Unfortunately, people with NPD can't give genuine love.Do narcissist miss their ex?
Do narcissists miss their ex after No Contact? Now you might be thinking that the narcissist really misses you and the answer is yes, they do but not the way you hope. As we explained above, you were their source of narcissistic supply — a source of love, admiration, and praise.What kind of woman do narcissists like?
In fact, narcissists are often attracted to strong, confident, and self-assured women. While this may seem counterintuitive, it is important to realize that the narcissistic traits of grandiosity and confidence are really a mask for deep insecurity.Do narcissists cheat in marriage?
Infidelity in a relationship is commonly seen with people who have narcisissitic personality traits. The narcissist might be in a long-term relationship with a partner, but continues to cheat on that partner, despite being caught.Will a narcissist stalk you?
Not every narcissist is a stalker, but the probability of a narcissist becoming a stalker is high. Narcissists don't handle rejection well because they see it as it's a type of criticism or even a personal attack. To cope with the breakup, narcissists will fantasize about their exes still being in love with them.How does a narcissist feel when you go no contact while they are doing the same to you?
They can be moody, angry and irritableA narcissist struggles with no in-person contact because they utilize body language to communicate, get their needs met, and maintain control. They have low self-esteem, and without validation, they can come become moody, angry, and irritable.