Overlooking this might mean missing a key insight into your own behavior. The way someone organizes their space isn’t always just about preference; it can be a reflection of past experiences. For victims of narcissistic abuse, even the way they arrange their belongings can carry deeper meaning.
Today, we’ll discuss the strange ways narcissistic abuse victims organize their belongings. Are you ready for number one? The “just in case” stash. Have you ever packed a bag you hope you’ll never have to use? That’s the reality for many victims of narcissistic abuse. When you’ve lived under someone’s control, especially when that control extends to your finances, movement, or even basic choices, you learn to prepare for the worst. The “just in case” stash isn’t paranoia; it’s survival. Judith Herman, a trauma expert and author of Trauma and Recovery, explains that coercive control creates an ongoing state of threat where escape planning becomes second nature. Whether it’s an emergency bag hidden in a closet, extra cash stashed in a book, or a second set of keys with a trusted friend, these small precautions give victims a sense of control in a life where control has been stripped away.
But here’s the kicker: many victims don’t even realize they’re doing it out of trauma. You might tell yourself it’s just being responsible or that everyone should have an exit plan. While that’s true, the difference lies in the underlying fear. So, the “just in case” stash isn’t about being dramatic; it’s about being prepared for a reality narcissistic abuse victims know all too well.
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