However, there’s a term floating ‘round these parts associated with the popular vacuum name “hoover.”
It turns out, this is also known as a way to suck someone back into an unhealthy relationship.
Hoovering is commonly associated with partners exhibiting signs of narcissistic personality disorder.
Still, people without NPD can hoover too, especially when self-entitled or experiencing relationship crossroads.
Understanding the term hoovering and its psychology has led researchers to offer better aid and solutions to victims.
The more research is conducted on hoovering, the more easily recognizable signs become.
These signs are valuable tools we can use to protect ourselves and others if we encounter narcissistic abuse.
So, what are these signs and how exactly do we address them?
Abusers do this by constantly initiating contact.
This contact materializes in multiple forms DMs, phone calls, texts, emails and passes for casual check-ins.
Abusers may also resort to a form of contact called smearing or smear campaigning.
On the other hand, a smear campaign isn’t as direct or face-to-face as smearing itself.
“This is an attention grab for abusers so they can gain empathy from others.
Hoovering can also be spotted in moments where the abuser strenuously promises change and is overly apologetic.
“In this Hoover, the narcissistic or sociopathic individual appears to have turned a whole new corner.
They now ‘repent’ their sins and everything they’ve done to you,” Shahida Arabi toldPsych Central.
Whatever the case, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Experts recommend that anyone victimized by hoovering of any kind canbenefit from therapy.
