Love bombing is the initial idealization stage in the cycle of narcissistic abuse. The narcissist uses charm, charisma, flattery, and grand gestures to lure their victim into the relationship.
Love bombing is a manipulative tactic the narcissist uses to hook their victim. The narcissist comes on with a bang, leaving their target feeling like they’ve hit the jackpot. Things feel too good to be true. (Because they are.) The narcissist tells their victim that they’re “the one,” that they’ve never met anyone like them, and that they’ve finally met their soulmate. Yada yada yada. Everything feels perfect, a dream come true.
Then, out of the blue the dream becomes a nightmare. Compliments and affection are replaced with criticisms and indifference, even disdain. (See devaluing.) The victim is left reeling, wondering what they did wrong. (Nothing. Devaluing is the inevitable second stage of narcissistic abuse.
The hallmark of love bombing is “too much too soon.” If something feels “off,” or things are moving too quickly, listen to your gut and slow things down. A non-narcissist will respect your request to take things at a slower pace. A narcissist, not so much.