Why narcissists use the silent treatment and how to respond

I go into why narcissists use the silent treatment and how to respond to it. In my opinion, when dealing with a narcissist, the best solution is to go no contact and protect your energy.

From experience, I know how challenging it is to deal with narcissists and their manipulative behaviour. I would like to add here that going no contact is not the same as the silent treatment, as it has no abusive purpose but rather is the best way to save and protect yourself. It’s essential to learn to protect yourself and your energy.

I hope this video can be helpful to you in some way. I wish you strength and more kindness in the future.

You can read more about this subject in my in-depth article about how and why narcissists use the silent treatment, stonewalling, sulking, lack of affection, and how to deal with it:

More articles that might interest you:

About @dealwithnarcissist: I created this channel to offer a form of help for those experiencing narcissistic abuse. I decided to use my experience in order to help others and hope this channel and my site can provide quality insight in order to recognize, understand and deal with narcissists. I do this based on my experience/research and this website thus doesn’t provide professional help. I’d like to emphasize that it’s important to seek professional help and support if required.

Content information:
- Copyright free music from Youtube Audio Library.
- Video is created using Filmora.
- Content, script and voice by @dealwithnarcissist.

[getbusyliving]

I'm starting to see that silent treatment from a narcissist is a gift.

[monicahocking]

I think the silent treatment is the crueliest thing that someone who claims to love you can possibly do. 44 years I had of that.

[rosam]

Their silence is the best thing. Let's face it....when they only open their mouths to criticise or create drama and unnecessary arguments... Who wouldn't want their silence!

[tommywitte]

Silent treatment will backfire when the victim becomes so numb they never return.

[drleo]

The silent treatment never bothered me . Silence is better than verbal abuse . It is peaceful.

[stafanawarner]

This is the best explanation of the silent treatment. I endured for 54 yrs…..apologizing always, doubting myself…..a real hell. Now I’m finally free of him and guess what..I’m happier than ever.

[JaneDoe-ijls]

I was always grateful when my mom was giving us her silent treatment
The silence was heavenly.

[librasoul]

This is a breakdown of my last relationship with my Ex. He would use the silent treatment Everytime i would address his apparent flaws. I got tired of this toxic environment. people that exercise this type of behavior will not change their method of communication, which is using no form of communication at ALL! I had to break out that dysfunction for my own sanity and wellbeing. # Get_out!💯

[shak]

Absolutely fantastic talk. Summed it up perfectly. Silence treatment is a punishment for us, to watch us squirm, regret, introspect for days, beg for forgiveness and to warn us and bring us back in line. The more weakness we show, the stronger they become.

[lisaking]

I had a narcissist once try this with me, I think to make me knuckle under to his control. Boy was he shocked when I cut off all ties with him. Never looked back. For years he kept asking some of my friends about me, they wouldn't tell him a thing.

[g-dcomplex]

after two silent treatments from my last ex i protested, the third one resulted in complete disassociation and going no contact, whatever they say is usually lies or manipulative dialogue, cut em off, save your time and self worth

[sonderman]

Thank you for a comprehensive content on this topic. These people are cruel & cowards to the bone. In 22 years of a miserable marriage, my wife has never even once offered to sit down and discuss our problems in a mature and adult manner. All I received constantly was silent treatment for long periods of time with no regards for the affect her behaviour has on our young son. Disgusting!

[cyndimorgan]

I was ignored by my husband for over 25 years and thank God my daughter told me to get out of the marriage because i was dying waiting around for him. Past 10 years of been the most peaceful years of my life and when I lock the door at night I go to sleep knowing I will not be bothered by that idiot coming in all hours!

[NiecyCatz]

The silent treatment makes you feel like you don't exist. It is very cruel. It is dehumanizing.

[setapartserveministries]

No Contact will surprise them especially if this is new coming
from you. And they will then try to contact you. Don't fall for it!

[tiffanyfournier]

This is absolutely bang on correct and explains this abusive tactic crystal clear. Thank you for a great video. When I first encountered this treatment I was so perplexed by it, it's very confusing and extremely painful behavior to inflict on empathic people that desire peace and healthy communication. Life is way too short to tolerate this emotionally stunted BS!!!

[sgm]

This made me feel not as alone. The experience is so isolating. Thank you.💝

[r.p.]

recognize the situation for what it is, and not for what you want it to be. That is so good to hear... my bubble got bursted.

[AnnSisuLiv]

How to respond? You don't. Perfect opportunity to get them distanced from you.

[flbepxx]

I have just learned that his silent treatment is the childish stupidest thing I’ve ever seen but in a way I’m glad he’s done this, because now I see him even more ridiculous and I do not want him back