“The algorithm is not a narcissist — but it behaves like one, because it was designed to hook you the same way.”

Section I — The Abuse Pattern in Code

Narcissistic abuse follows a cycle: love-bomb, exploit, devalue, discard, hoover back. Algorithms mimic this with notifications, follower boosts, shadowbans, and “come back” emails. The machine doesn’t feel — but it manipulates as if it does.

Section II — Social Media’s Love-Bombing Tactics

When you first join, you’re flooded with suggestions, matches, followers, and likes. It feels like belonging. That’s the love-bomb. Once you’re hooked, the real game begins: extracting your attention for ads.

Section III — Shadowbans, Gaslighting, and Double Binds

Ever been told “your content violates guidelines” without explanation? That’s gaslighting. Platforms deny obvious contradictions and create double binds: you must post to grow, but posting risks punishment. The uncertainty is the point.

Section IV — Intermittent Rewards: The Like/Share Cycle

Likes don’t arrive evenly. They’re engineered to hit irregularly, keeping you checking back. This is the same schedule casinos use with slot machines. Intermittent rewards are the most addictive form of reinforcement.

Section V — Escaping the Narcissistic Algorithm

Escaping doesn’t mean deleting all accounts. It means reframing the relationship: post strategically, not compulsively. Build sovereign archives (blogs, PDFs, Bitcoin-backed assets) outside platforms. Recognize that “the algorithm” isn’t God — it’s code designed to exploit your brainstem.

Surprise Prompt — Audit Your Algorithmic Relationship

Act as a digital-psychology auditor. Evaluate my relationship with social media algorithms.
Steps:
1) Inventory: Platforms I use daily/weekly.
2) Track: How many notifications, likes, or messages per day? 
3) Map: Identify love-bombing (initial floods), intermittent rewards, gaslighting (unclear rules).
4) Score: Rate each platform 0–5 for narcissistic traits.
5) Output:
   a) My "Algorithmic Abuse Scorecard."
   b) 3 strategies to cut dependence without losing value.
   c) Simulation: What happens if I cut one platform entirely for 30 days?

Conclusion & Series Navigation

Algorithms are mirrors of narcissistic cycles. Once you see it, you stop taking the highs and lows personally — and start building sovereignty. The only winning move is to treat platforms as tools, not parents.

© 2025 Festus Joe Addai — Made2MasterAI™ / StealthSupply™. Quote up to 150 words with attribution and a link.