- It’s common for toxic exes to reappear into our lives and ask for another shot at a relationship.
- It’s possible to change abusive tendencies, but experts in narcissism warn they may be lying to you.
- “Hoovering” is the dating trend of sucking someone back into an unhealthy relationship through manipulation.
“If you take me back, I promise I’ll change.”
Often times, toxic exes will try to re-enter our lives under the guise of change: They’ll say they’ve grown into a more loving partner and even offer up tempting gifts. But do they mean it?
Though some couples can reconcile in a healthy way, experts warn about a common tactic used by narcissistic and abusive partners: “hoovering.” Named after avacuum, it involves sucking someone back into a toxic or emotionally abusive relationship through manipulation and lies.