Narcissists are toxic people who have a grandiose sense of self, unstable relationships tainted by manipulations, and an emotionally abusive demeanour toward almost everyone who comes into contact with them. The silent treatment is perhaps the most used weapon in their attempts to emotionally manipulate and control those closest to them.

The silent treatment is a passive-aggressive behaviour in which the user has complete control. It not only sends a loud and clear message, but it also encourages the other person to do whatever they can to get the attention of their abuser, whom they frequently love and care about.

If you’ve ever been subjected to the silent treatment, you know how devastating it can be. It can force you to apologise for things you haven’t done, and it can make you feel insane in many ways. Here are seven reasons why narcissists prefer to be treated in silence.

1. To punish their target.

To punish their partner or target, narcissists use the silent treatment. Staying silent, rather than arguing or communicating, sends a loud and clear message: you have upset me, and now I want you to suffer. This is extremely harmful to the other individual.

2. To take back control.

When a narcissist feels he or she is losing control, they resort to silence. This allows them to assert themselves as the person in charge by making the other person feel as if they have no control over the situation.

3. To manipulate their partner.

Furthermore, narcissists get a kick out of manipulating their victims. They will go to any length to obtain what they desire, regardless of the cost.

4. For stonewalling.

During an argument with a narcissist, stonewalling is defined as a refusal to communicate. A narcissist will say their piece and then shut down rather than talk things through. As a result, the other person is irritated and frustrated.

5. To make their target feel crazy.

Making others feel insane is another way narcissists manipulate. We all want validation, communication, understanding, and acceptance from others, especially from those we care about. When we don’t get it, we may try to force it and reach out, hoping to break the silence.

When it isn’t, we may feel as if we are losing them, leading us to push even harder. As a result, we feel irrational, giving the narcissist even more power.

6. To make their target feel broken down.

Narcissists break down those who are closest to them in order to gain complete control and ensure an endless supply from the other person. In order to accomplish this, they employ abusive tactics such as gaslighting and stonewalling, as well as silent treatment.

7. To feel powerful.

Furthermore, a narcissist’s goal is to wield power over others. And, because silent treatment is one of the most effective ways for them to gain this power, they employ it as often as they see fit. And the more it pays off, the more they’ll choose this method of command.