My Dad is an overt narcissist and my step dad is (probably) a covert malignant narcissist. Whenever I'm around them for too long they invariable start critisizing everything about me, venemously and sadistically in my steps dad's case.

I've tried to talk to them about this dynamic multiple times. My dad will partially admit to his action and my step dad will basically give me the "you're sensitive" routine.

When I start to gradually cut them out of my life, it's obvious how much it's hurts them, yet they still won't stop. This results in me eventually not seeing them at all and refusing to be around them.

I haven't talked to my dad in 10 years and haven't talked to my step dad in about a year.

Why do narcissist (at least both of my dads) attack other people so often, yet seem hurt and surprised when the person they're victimizing rejects them?