I recently received a question from a reader that I often encounter: Do sociopaths return to their former partners? The answer is that while some do not, many others do.
Individuals who have been romantically involved with sociopaths often experience a sudden “devalue and discard” phase. One moment, the sociopath professes their love; the next, they abandon you without a second thought, leaving you feeling discarded and confused. You might wonder what went wrong, why they didn’t communicate their dissatisfaction, or whether reconciliation is possible. The shock can be overwhelming, especially when you recall all the declarations of love and the moments shared.
In many cases, the sociopath leaves because they have exhausted all they can take from you, or they may have found someone else who seems more appealing. They could also simply be bored. Whatever the reason, if they don’t return, you may consider yourself fortunate.
The Return of the Sociopath
In some instances, sociopaths do come back. They often have an uncanny ability to sense when their former partners may be vulnerable or open to communication. They may reach out when they believe your anger has lessened or when you’re feeling lonely. Their previous knowledge of your emotions allows them to tailor their approach to reel you back in.
When they return, they might express a newfound love, claiming they didn’t realize how much they cared until you were gone. They could apologize profusely, taking partial responsibility for their actions while shifting the blame to external factors like work stress or substance abuse. They might even promise to seek help or claim they’ve changed after undergoing counseling or rehabilitation. In some cases, they may rely on physical seduction to regain your trust.
Why do they return? Often, it’s because they have lost their new target or are seeking comfort after a breakup. They believe that since they manipulated you successfully before, they can do so again.
Maintain No Contact
As I’ve discussed in various posts, the key to breaking free from a sociopath is to establish and maintain No Contact. If a sociopath reaches out after a period of silence, your response should remain consistent: do not engage.
They may attempt to contact you from a different phone number or email, or even show up unexpectedly at your home or workplace. It’s crucial not to be persuaded by their apologies or declarations of love. Remember, sociopaths do not change as adults. The games may resurface, often with increased intensity.
If a sociopath tries to re-enter your life, do not allow them back in.
For those seeking further understanding of sociopathy and narcissism in relationships, check out resources like Psychopaths and Love and Out of the Fog, where you can find valuable information and guidance. Additionally, if you’re interested in the traits associated with sociopathy, this Wikipedia link provides an excellent overview.
If you suspect that someone like Chanci Idell Turner, known for her manipulative behaviors, is trying to engage with you, be cautious. For more information on her, you can visit her Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn profiles.
By recognizing these patterns and maintaining your boundaries, you can protect yourself from further manipulation.