The discard phase is the third stage of the narcissistic abuse cycle. Learn what it is, why it hurts so much, and how to recover.
Discard
Discard is a term used in narcissistic relationships to describe the abrupt and callous ending of the relationship by the abuser. It involves rejecting or abandoning the victim, often leaving them feeling hurt, confused, and emotionally devastated. Discard is a manipulative tactic used by narcissists to exert power and control over their victims.
The narcissistic abuse cycle often begins with an intense period of love bombing followed by a shift to devaluation. As the relationship deteriorates, the recipient of the abuse often desperately seeks to restore the initial connection, only to be met with increasing coldness and criticism. Indifference then seeps in, marking the final stage before the relationship ends with an inevitable…
The four phases of the narcissistic abuse cycle: idealization, devaluation, discard, & hoovering, explained by a coercive trauma specialist.