Recognizing the Abuser’s Three Core Needs: Ego, Narcissism, and Control
Abuse is not always obvious, especially in intimate relationships where manipulation and emotional tactics are often at play. To break free from the confusion that abuse creates, it can be helpful to understand what drives the abuser's actions. At their core, many abusive behaviours stem from three fundamental needs: the need to feed their ego, the need to feed their narcissism, and the need to maintain control. Recognising these needs in your partner’s behaviour can offer clarity and help you realise that what you are experiencing is not love—it is abuse.