10 Weird Emotional Reactions Seen in Narcissistic Abuse Victims

For victims of narcissistic abuse, praise can feel more like a trap than a compliment. Narcissists often use praise as manipulation, building you up only to tear you down later.

Psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula explains that abuse victims often view compliments as bait rather than genuine appreciation. Instead of feeling good, praise makes you brace yourself, wondering, What’s the catch?

9. Unexplained Outbursts or Emotional Flooding

Emotional flooding—where suppressed feelings come rushing out all at once—can leave you baffled. Triggers may tap into deep wells of unresolved pain, causing sudden bursts of tears or anger.

Dr. Judith Orloff explains that this often happens when survivors have buried their true feelings for so long. When something small reminds them of their hurt, all those emotions explode at once.