LOVE BOMBING, NARCISSISM, AND EMOTIONAL ABUSE AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN RELATIONSHIPS AND SITUATIONSHIPS

Abstract

Love bombing is a manipulative relational tactic characterized by overwhelming affection, excessive attention, and fast-paced emotional intimacy, often used to gain control or compliance from a partner. Although not clinically classified as a disorder, love bombing is frequently associated with narcissistic personality traits and emotionally abusive dynamics. This paper examines the relationship between love bombing, narcissism, and emotional abuse among young adults, drawing on existing psychological research and recent empirical findings. While correlations between these factors are often inconsistent or statistically insignificant, the patterns observed across romantic relationships and situationships indicate the presence of differential emotional influence and power dynamics. The paper highlights how love bombing is used strategically during the early stages of relational formation to idealize, isolate, and later devalue partners. The discussion further emphasizes the need for relationship education programs to enhance awareness of emotional manipulation and promote healthier relational boundaries.