Silent Collapse of a Narcissist | No one Knows When This Happens

Number two: they enter an uncharacteristic people-pleasing mode. Narcissists of all types are dominating in different ways—entitled and dismissive—but when they silently collapse, they start doing something unusual: people-pleasing in ways that keep them going. They beg for supply and don’t hate the fact that it makes them look desperate. They sense they’re losing their grip on their usual sources of validation, so they shift strategies.

Maybe they have been demoted, such as a narcissistic parent who sees themselves as an estranged figure. Suddenly, they become overly agreeable, complimenting you or others excessively or even acting like they genuinely care. Why? Because they have zero power. But don’t be fooled; this isn’t real humility or mellowing down—it’s manipulation born from fear. It’s the wounded wolf trying to win back favor before the walls close in on them completely.

6 Secret Signs Narcissist Wants You Dead

This behavior may also include making grand gestures they would never have done before, like offering gifts, suddenly being generous, or volunteering to do things for others without being asked. But it feels forced, almost rehearsed, like they are putting on a performance for the audience they are desperately trying to retain.