In this blog post, we’re going to explore three key points:
- How pornography consumption creates a narcissistic bubble, and what that bubble is.
- What happens in your brain when you’re trapped inside this bubble.
- A brain tip strategy to pop the bubble, escape, and return to a thriving life.
What is a Narcissistic Bubble?
A narcissist believes the world revolves around them, existing solely for their pleasure. They take from it without feeling the need to give back. Long-term porn consumption, especially with edging, can trap your brain in a similar narcissistic bubble. This bubble is damaging, and it can give you certain traits.
1. Objectification
When you hit the “easy button” for a dopamine rush by watching porn, you start seeing people on the screen as objects. Over time, this habit can make you see people in real life the same way. You may believe others are there only to fulfill your desires, which leads to objectifying people, including your partner.
2. Lack of Intimacy
Porn lacks intimacy. As an observer of fake performances, especially with narcissistic tendencies, you avoid real emotional connection. Many people in the bubble think, “Why bother with my partner’s needs when porn is effortless?” This detachment is a hallmark of the narcissistic bubble.
3. Control of the Environment
In porn, you control everything—what you watch, who you watch, and what acts you see. There’s no need to consider another person’s needs. In real relationships, variables exist that you can’t control. Narcissists crave control, which makes the unpredictable nature of real-life intimacy challenging for them.
4. Reflection
Narcissists see themselves reflected in the performers on screen, which fuels a distorted sense of power. Even though it’s not real, it gives them a rush of control, reinforcing the bubble’s allure.
5. Withdrawal and Isolation
Narcissists avoid real connection. They prefer to use others as tools for pleasure while keeping control. This withdrawal into their bubble isolates them from the real world, making them feel safe yet more disconnected.
6. Total Compliance
Porn offers total compliance—performers do exactly what you want. In real life, your partner may not agree, which challenges narcissists. This need for control extends beyond sexual encounters, even into conversations and thought processes.
7. Constant Validation
Narcissists in the bubble seek validation through porn, constantly checking it for reassurance. They believe they’re powerful and in control, but this dependence on external validation reveals insecurity, not strength.
8. Shame
Shame is heavy in the narcissistic bubble, but it remains contained within it. While in the bubble, you may feel driven and in control on the surface, but in reality, it’s a lack of control rooted in shame and conflict.
What Happens in the Brain?
Pornography floods the brain with dopamine, which drives motivation. The more you indulge, the more your brain craves it. This self-fulfilling cycle eventually burns out dopamine receptors, leading to porn-induced erectile dysfunction (PIED). This means you can get an erection with porn, but struggle with real intimacy.
In addition to breaking free from the narcissistic bubble, it’s essential to understand what’s happening in your brain. A qEEG Brain Map Assessment can help identify the patterns in your brain activity that may be keeping you stuck. This personalized insight can guide your recovery process and help rewire your brain for success.
For a deeper dive into your specific needs, I recommend scheduling a private discovery session with Dr. Trish Leigh. During this one-on-one session, Dr. Leigh will help you understand how your brain is functioning and provide strategies tailored to your situation.
To support your journey, consider joining the Porn-Free Brain Forever program. This program is designed to help you rewire your brain, break free from the grip of porn, and regain control over your life.
For more insights, watch Dr. Leigh’s video: How Porn Hijacks Your Brain.