
Recovery FOR the Narcissist | Narcissism | Awareness | Accountability | Growth
From Worship to Withdrawal: The Idealize–Devalue–Withdraw Cycle
<p>In this episode of Recovery for the Narcissist, Dr. Eric Perry explores the Idealize–Devalue–Withdraw Cycle, a common but often misunderstood pattern that shapes many relationships involving individuals with narcissistic traits. This episode examines why relationships can begin with intense admiration, emotional investment, and a powerful sense of connection, only to gradually shift toward disappointment, criticism, emotional distancing, and eventual withdrawal.</p> <p>Drawing from the work of psychoanalyst Otto Kernberg and object relations theory, Dr. Perry explains how unconscious defenses shape the way individuals experience intimacy, vulnerability, and self-worth. He explores how idealization is often used to stab...






