"...After having exhausted a given social network, the narcissist may come to see the error of the narcissist’s ways. This state may be akin to the anecdotal stories of alcoholics who, late into their addiction, become so desperate for a drink that they succumb to gulping down the cooking sherry under the sink. For narcissists, being rebuffed by superiors, followed by unsuccessful attempts to secure admiration from lowerstatus others, may signal that the narcissist has reached “rock bottom,” the time at which the narcissist recognizes the narcissist’s deep investment in the addiction. Hence, this may be the time when narcissists see themselves in a (relatively) objective light and put a temporary end to their narcissistic patterns. However, we do not believe that coming to see themselves in a more realistic manner indicates the end of the narcissistic addiction. More likely, the cravings may lie dormant for some time, as the narcissist goes about pursuing success in a normal, seemingly humble manner. Once new successes are found, however, the cycle may begin again..."
"...The addiction view may prove a useful extension of Morf and Rhodewalt’s analysis. Like drug addicts, narcissists crave a pleasure that others may also recognize but regard with some disapproval (and probably with good reason, given the antisocial consequences). The craving for esteem may lead to a cycle of escalating tolerance and occasional, bitter withdrawal. The instability of narcissists’ self-esteem and relationships could be understood as resulting from these cycles."
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