How long does the idealization phase last in a Narcissistic relationship?

Answer 1

I believe I have read that it can last (theoretically) for years! That seems amazing to me but I guess if the circumstances are right, it can be that way. The circumstances would have to be such that the narcissist was still "getting" more out of idealizing his source than by starting to attack her. For example, a narcissist who is completely dependent on his source because he has lost his job and is living in her house, living off of her money and his only friends are her friends/coworkers. In this case, I would propose that perhaps it was in his best interest to see her as "perfect", "wonderful", "self-sacrificing" etc. for as long as said source was willing to let him sponge off of her. As soon as she starts to put her foot down and tells him he hasto get a job and can no longer get high, sleep, play Golf and drink beer all day long, my guess is that the idealization phase will pass.