Do narcissists like to cuddle? Is their affection genuine or manipulative?
This article will dive into the complex and often conflicting world of narcissists and cuddling.
We will explore the behavior of narcissists when it comes to physical intimacy and emotional intimacy.
The article will also examine how a person’s sexual behavior can provide insight into how they might treat their romantic partner. Let’s begin exploring this topic.
Why do people cuddle?
Cuddling is a natural human behavior with various physical and emotional benefits.
According to research1 Hertenstein, M. J. (2009). The communication of emotion via touch., cuddling can help to increase feelings of bonding, attachment, and emotional connection between people. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety and can improve overall feelings of well-being and happiness.
Cuddling can also have physical benefits, such as increasing the production of oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of love and bonding.
According to a study 2Belle Waring (2006) A Cuddle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away , the positive effects of oxytocin on well-being were more pronounced in women who had closer relationships and more frequent hugs with their romantic partners. The same study also found that women experienced positive effects of oxytocin when they held their infants closely.
Cuddling can be an essential aspect of healthy relationships, as it helps to foster feelings of closeness, connection, and support.
Do men and women differ in cuddling?
Some research suggests that men and women may differ in their attitudes towards and preferences for cuddling.
However, it is essential to note that these differences may be influenced by various factors, including cultural and individual differences, and may not apply to all men and women.
One study in 2011 3 Daniel J Kruger (2011) Tendencies to fall asleep first after sex are associated with greater partner desires for bonding and affection found that men were more likely to prefer cuddling to falling asleep, while women were more likely to report cuddling as a way to feel close to their partner.
Another study 4 Julian D. Fuentes (2021) Individual and relational differences in desire for touch in romantic relationshipspublished in the journal Personality and Individual Differences found that men were likelier to report cuddling to relax and feel comfortable. At the same time, women were more likely to report cuddling as a way to feel emotionally connected and loved.
Do narcissists like to cuddle?
Some narcissists may use cuddling to manipulate their partners and create a fake sense of intimacy, while others may avoid it or seem to dislike it. It’s not accurate to make generalizations about all narcissists, as they can have different preferences and behaviors when it comes to physical intimacy.
Remember that narcissists may have difficulty with genuine intimacy and empathy and use cuddling and other forms of physical affection to fuel their narcissistic supply rather than to connect with their partner.
Do narcissists enjoy being touched?
The answer is not straightforward and depends on the type of narcissist, the nature of the relationship, and their current needs.
Some narcissists may use touch, including cuddling, to manipulate their partners and create a false sense of intimacy during the love-bombing phase of a relationship. However, at other times, they may avoid touch or dislike it.
It is essential to consider the motivations behind a narcissist’s behavior and to be aware of the potential for manipulation and coercion. It is also important to remember that healthy relationships involve mutual respect, trust, and consideration for the other person’s feelings and needs.
Can narcissists be affectionate?
The answer is yes, but it is essential to understand the context and motivations behind their behavior.
During the love-bombing phase of a relationship, narcissists may be highly affectionate and attentive, showering their partners with gifts, compliments, and physical touch.
This intense and overwhelming display of affection can be seductive and alluring and is often used to manipulate and control their partners.
However, as the relationship progresses, the narcissist’s affection may wane or become more conditional. They may withdraw love to punish or manipulate their partner or only show love when it serves their own needs or desires.
It is essential to be aware of the motivations behind a narcissist’s affection and to be mindful of any patterns of manipulation or coercion in the relationship.
How does narcissistic behavior change over time?
During the initial stages of a relationship, narcissists often engage in love-bombing, a tactic in which they shower their partners with attention, affection, and flattery to win their favor and establish control. However, this behavior is not sustainable in the long term and eventually ends.
As the relationship progresses and becomes more comfortable or predictable, the narcissist may become critical or dismissive of their partner, finding fault with even minor issues. This can be triggered by the partner setting boundaries or making requests challenging the narcissist’s control.
In response, the narcissist may use manipulation and control tactics, such as gaslighting, to make their partner feel guilty or responsible for the change in the relationship dynamic. They may also seek to return to the initial love-bombing phase when the relationship feels perfect and flawless.
Devaluation and unpredictability
During the devaluation phase, the narcissist may withdraw affection and engage in behaviors that make their partner feel unimportant. This can be chaotic and confusing, as the narcissist may switch between periods of rage and coldness and exhibit different public and private behaviors.
In public, the narcissist may appear affectionate and attentive, while in private, they may ignore or dismiss their partner. This unpredictability can be emotionally draining and distressing for the partner.
Affection as a selfish tool
Narcissists may also use affection to get what they want rather than as a genuine expression of love or intimacy. For example, they may become affectionate after a fight to smooth over the conflict and return to the status quo without putting in any emotional work.
This can give the partner false hope that the relationship can improve. Still, the narcissist will likely return to their usual manipulative behaviors once they have gotten what they want. In these cases, the narcissist’s affection is not genuine and is used as a selfish tool to achieve their own goals.
Do narcissists enjoy kissing their partners?
Narcissists may enjoy kissing their partner, but their motives differ from those of other people. Kissing has evolutionary roots and can reveal a potential partner’s sexual vitality and mating behavior. It is also a way to express affection and gratitude.
Some narcissists use kissing to create an emotional connection with others, but this connection is often superficial and calculated. They may also use kissing to show off their partner in public.
It can be challenging to detect this behavior at the beginning of a relationship, but it often fades over time, especially in private. During the devaluing stage of a relationship with a narcissist, affection may decrease significantly.
Do narcissists like to hold hands?
Like kissing, the behavior of a narcissist when it comes to holding hands can vary. Narcissists may enjoy showing affection in public to maintain a positive image. But their behavior may differ when they are alone with their partner.
Narcissists may avoid emotionally vulnerable behaviors such as holding hands, as they do not want to expose themselves to vulnerability. Instead, they may only engage in affectionate behaviors if they feel it serves their needs or goals.
Can a narcissist be alone?
Narcissists may like being alone, but it depends on their type. Overt narcissists enjoy being in the spotlight and crave attention from others.
They may struggle with solitude and need constant social interaction.
Covert narcissists, on the other hand, may appear more introverted and shy. They may enjoy alone time for hobbies or reflection but may also become neglectful of relationships or responsibilities.
Both types of narcissists still desire attention, whether through online interactions or projects, to gain approval from others.
Final Thoughts
This was everything you need to know about narcissistic behavior when it comes to cuddling. Some narcissists may appreciate it, while others may not. However, it is common for narcissists to use cuddling to obtain the narcissistic supply.
Narcissists often have difficulties with authentic intimacy and may not be able to comprehend or satisfy their partner’s desires.
It’s crucial to prioritize your happiness and not sacrifice your well-being for someone else. You deserve to be with someone who respects and values you.
