Jane Austen reveals the truth behind romantic love's foolery

In recent discussions, Dr Elinor Greenberg, an expert in psychology, particularly focuses on narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and its implications in romantic relationships. According to her, when individuals with NPD express feelings of love, they are often not referring to genuine affection for another person but rather to an idealized fantasy about that person. This misunderstanding can lead to challenges in relationships, as these narcissists may expect their partners to embody their fantasies, further exacerbating tensions when reality does not align with their expectations. As partners with narcissistic traits become increasingly frustrated with perceived imperfections, a process known as 'devaluing' begins, leading to emotional or even physical abandonment. Emotional abandonment can manifest as a lack of concern for a partner's wellbeing, potentially including flirtations or infidelity. Narcissists, perceiving their partners as dispensable once the fantasy fades, often seek new connections that have not yet been 'tainted' by the realities of life. Meanwhile, the conversation about relationships and love continues to evolve, especially among younger generations, who are increasingly exploring alternative forms of connection and redefining traditional courtships despite challenging behaviors like narcissism. Dr Ramani, another authority in the field, emphasized that toxic behaviors can vary from person to person, and while narcissism often seeks control and power, not all toxic individuals are driven by the same insecurities, which can complicate relationships further.