The Psychology Behind an Ex's Blocking Yet Following: An SEO Guide

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your ex-boyfriend has blocked you, but still follows your Instagram stories? It can be puzzling and emotionally unsettling. In this article, we'll explore the psychological theories behind such behavior and provide guidance on how to handle this situation.

Why Would Your Ex Follow You Despite Blocking?

Blocking someone on Instagram doesn’t necessarily mean they can't see your public stories. If your stories are public, your ex can still browse through your posts and comments daily. This phenomenon is not uncommon and often leaves the blocking individual wondering why an ex would still follow their stories. There can be several reasons for this behavior:

Curiosity: They might just be curious about your life. Blocking you doesn’t eliminate the possibility of them being interested in what you’re doing. Relevance: They may want to stay relevant in your life. By following your public posts, they ensure that you’re still aware of their presence. Distraction: Some individuals engage in this behavior as a method of distraction, hoping to keep you focused on them rather than moving on.

It’s important not to read too much into their behavior. Speculating on their intentions can lead to unnecessary stress. Simply blocking them can ensure you're not subjected to their intrusive behavior.

Why a Narcissist Would Behave in this Manner

When dealing with a narcissist, their behavior often stems from an inherent need for control and manipulation. Here’s how a narcissist might behave when blocking you yet following your stories:

Misdirection: They might block you to gain the upper hand in a conflict but still follow your stories to ensure you're aware of their presence. This creates a sense of power and control in their mind. Manipulation: By following your stories, they can use this information to provoke emotions or maintain a connection, even if it's a toxic one. Confusing Intentions: Constantly changing their behavior leaves you confused and uncertain, which aligns with their ultimate goal of creating confusion and chaos in your life.

Their real intention is often to keep you on your toes, constantly questioning their actions, and keep you emotionally attached to them. Instead of focusing on why they are doing what they are doing, it’s better to focus on why you are still wondering why. This reflective questioning gives the narcissist the satisfaction of seeing you in turmoil, reaffirming their hold over you.

Strategies for Moving Forward After Being Blocked Yet Followed

Dealing with an ex who blocks yet follows can be challenging, but there are strategies you can use to regain control:

Block Them Completely: Remove them from your life. Blocking them entirely will prevent them from seeing your posts and ensuring they don't continue to impact your emotional well-being. Redirect Your Focus: Engage in self-care and productive activities. Focus on personal growth and happiness rather than dwelling on their actions. Avoid Lurking: Stop checking in on their social media presence. Lurking can reinforce their presence in your mind and potentially provoke unnecessary emotions. Let Go: Understand that they no longer deserve a place in your conscious thoughts. Treat them as if they no longer exist and move forward, allowing yourself to heal and grow.

Dealing with such situations requires emotional fortitude and clarity. By understanding their motives and taking steps to move forward, you can regain control of your life and prioritize your well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does my ex still follow my Instagram stories if I blocked them?
A: They might be curious about what you do or want to stay relevant in your life. Blocking them completely is a good step to take.

Q: How can I stop thinking about my ex who follows me?
A: Redirect your focus to self-care, engage in productive activities, and block them to remove their presence from your social media.

Q: Is it common for narcissists to block and still follow?
A: Yes, it can be a tactic used by narcissists to maintain control and provoke emotions. Understanding their game can help you move forward.