When The Narcissist’s New Supply Starts Acting And Looking Like.
Signs The New Supply Is Mimicking The Old.
When a new supply mimics the previous narcissistic supply regarding their appearance and interests, there are several signs and behaviours to look out for. These may include:
- Mirroring: They mirror the likes, preferences, and interests of the previous supply in an exaggerated manner. They may adopt similar hobbies and styles, or even adopt the same career path.
- Physical appearance: They may intentionally change their physical appearance to resemble the previous supply. It could involve imitating their clothing style, haircut, makeup, or even mimicking their body language.
- Social media presence: They may stalk and study the online presence of the previous supply. As a result, they try to imitate their social media behavior, such as posting similar content, using similar hashtags, or even copying their captions or bios.
- Taking on their roles: They may adopt the roles or positions held by the previous supply in social circles, such as being part of the same friend group, joining the same clubs or organisations, or even trying to fill the void left by the previous supply’s departure.
- Mirroring their personality traits: They might intentionally mirror the personality traits and characteristics of the previous supply. For example, if the previous supply was known for being empathetic, kind, or funny, the new supply may attempt to embody those qualities to gain similar approval.
- Talking about the previous supply: They may excessively talk about the previous supply, referencing their ideas, interests, or achievements. This could be an attempt to show a deep connection or shared experiences, even if it’s completely fabricated.
It is important to remember that these behaviours can vary depending on individual circumstances, and it’s crucial to consider the context and patterns of the relationship as a whole.
How The Narcissists Manipulates The New Into Acting Like The Old.
As it is not uncommon for the new partner, or “supply,” of the narcissist to begin mirroring the previous supply. Which can extend from outward appearances, such as hairstyle and fashion choices, to deeper aspects, like shared interests, hobbies, and even career choices. While the reasons behind this mirroring behaviour might initially appear confusing, a deeper analysis unveils eight key motivations that drive this mimicry. Through understanding these psychological underpinnings, we gain valuable insights into the dynamics at play within such relationships.
When a narcissist begins a new relationship, they bring with them a tainted perspective shaped by their past experiences. Their pattern of making unfair comparisons stems from their deep-seated need for control and validation. By making the new supply act like an old one, the narcissist feels a sense of familiarity and maintains their superiority.
To manipulate the new supply, the narcissist starts by subtly mentioning their previous partners’ qualities or actions. By doing so, they set a benchmark that the new supply is expected to meet or exceed. These comparisons often highlight positive aspects of the old supply while emphasising current flaws or shortcomings. This tactic instantly diminishes the new supply’s self-esteem and sense of worth. The narcissist may also create unrealistic expectations or moulds for their new partner to fit into, forcing them to act like their predecessors.
Moreover, a narcissist may intentionally provoke the new supply, prompting reactions similar to those of the old supply. This provocation often includes triggering situations or using phrases that they know will elicit certain responses. By ensuring their actions mirror those of previous relationships, the narcissist creates a feeling of déjà vu and heightens their perceived control.
Ultimately, the narcissist’s aim is to mould the new supply into someone interchangeable with their previous partners. This allows them to maintain a sense of superiority, as they can then assert that all their ex-partners had the same flaws or traits they successfully overcame. By creating unfair comparisons, the narcissist manipulates their current partner into acting like the old supply, perpetuating their cycle of control and validation.
What Makes The New Supply Want To Be Like The Old Supply?
Subconscious Desire to Please the Narcissist:
One possible explanation for the new supply’s mimicry lies in the subconscious desire to please the narcissist. Narcissists are known for their relentless need for validation and admiration. By emulating the previous supply, the new partner seeks to meet the narcissist’s expectations, ensuring they remain the primary focus of attention.
Attachment to the Idealised Image:
Narcissists can idealise their previous supply to devalue the new, creating an image of an ideal partner that they constantly seek to replicate. The new supply, driven by a fear of losing the narcissist’s affection, is motivated to adopt these idealised traits in an attempt to recreate the perceived “perfect relationship” the narcissist desires.
Emotional Dependency and Fear of Abandonment:
Narcissists thrive on maintaining control over their partners. The new supply, fearing abandonment, may mimic the previous supply to establish a sense of emotional dependency. By adopting similar traits, the new partner hopes to reduce the risk of being discarded, ensuring their place beside the narcissist.
Desire for Self-Validation:
Mimicking the previous supply may also stem from the new partner’s desire to validate their own worth. By emulating the traits and behaviours valued by the narcissist, the new supply seeks external validation, reassurance, and a sense of self-worth. In this way, the mimicry becomes a form of self-preservation within the relationship.
Indirect Competition with the Previous Partner:
The new supply may engage in mirroring as a means of competing indirectly with the previous partner. They may feel threatened by the accomplishments or perceived qualities of the previous supply and mimic their traits to prove their worth, gain attention, or attain the narcissist’s favour.
The New Supply is a Narcissist Mirroring You:
It is also essential to acknowledge the possibility that the new partner might mirror you due to possessing narcissistic tendencies themselves. Their mimicry could be a reflection of their own desire for control, power, and manipulation. In such cases, the mirroring becomes a tool for their own self-serving agendas.
The phenomenon of the new supply mimicking the old supply in narcissistic relationships is a complex one, rooted in intricate psychological motivations. From subconscious desires to establish emotional connections to fears of abandonment, the reasons behind the mimicry are multi-faceted. By recognising and understanding these underlying dynamics, we become equipped with invaluable knowledge that can inform our approach in navigating and healing from narcissistic relationships.
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Elizabeth Shaw is not a Doctor or a therapist. She is a mother of five, a blogger, a survivor of narcissistic abuse, and a life coach, She always recommends you get the support you feel comfortable and happy with. Finding the right support for you. Elizabeth has partnered with BetterHelp (Sponsored.) where you will be matched with a licensed councillor, who specialises in recovery from this kind of abuse.
