Signs of Narcissism & Treatment For It
In the past thirteen years, I have seen a pattern in many abusers, but only recently did I feel comfortable labeling it NPD (Narcissistic Personality Disorder). I aim to make it clear and straightforward to understand, hoping that anyone needing help can get help. Many families and relationships have suffered because of NPD and being able to identify it and work to find solutions could be life-changing for many.
Self-confidence is healthy and enhances one’s character. Research has shown that having a balanced confidence level helps one be less stressed throughout adulthood. Problems arise when one has an inflated opinion of themselves and requires an intense need for attention and admiration from others. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) can be summed up in a few words, arrogant, demanding, self-centered and opinionated.
There are two categories of NPD.
Grandiose narcissism is what most of us know as narcissism. They publicly present themselves as superior and indulges in the hype. Their every move is to impress and gain praise. If you look in from the outside, the narcissist’s qualities will seem fun and attractive until you get to know them better.
Vulnerable narcissism shares the same essential traits as NPD. They may struggle with shyness and inhibit themselves to prevent being wounded by others. They do not allow others to know who they are entirely and are very concerned about rejection. The vulnerable narcissist has an introverted personality: they are alone, unapproachable, primarily negative, and blame others for their mistakes.
Let’s start with how does one become narcissistic?
Narcissism has been around forever, but recent research has been done to understand the disease. Researchers have already discovered that genetics plays a tiny part in NPD, and environmental factors create narcissists.
Neglect in childhood or excessive pampering
Some cultural norms
Overprotection
Constant over-praising or over criticizing
Childhood abuse
Unrealistic expectations from parents
Comparison of being better by parents, friends, or others
Learn manipulative behavior from parents or others
Had few or no limits or boundaries
One study, Trusted Source, found that overprotection was linked to both vulnerable and grandiose narcissism in young adults. And while too much praise was linked to grandiosity, setting too few boundaries was tied to vulnerable narcissism.
Who can be a narcissist, and what are some observable behaviors?
We all know them, those people that we say are “so full of themselves.” The ones who have to dominate everything and believe it is my way or no way. Most frequently, they are the people who are always right, no matter what proof you provide.
In the US, less than 5% of people have been diagnosed with NPD, and about 75% are men.
Some signs of NPD
Feelings of entitlement
A feeling of superiority and self-importance
Self-admiration of being good-looking or successful
Reacts negatively to criticism
Need to be praised and looked up to by others
Need to be heard while stifling others’ opinions
Exaggerates successes and skills
Manipulative
Their needs matter; other people’s needs don’t.
Believing sympathy and empathy are not essential
Being arrogant and overflowing with pride
Am I a narcissist?
NPD usually appears in early adulthood, and people with the disorder may not recognize they have NPD since that would be negative for their self-image.
Signs you may be a narcissist.
Continuous relationship issues (family, friends, co-workers, etc.)
Things have to be done my way. If not, I become angry and abusive, emotionally, verbally even physically.
My point of view is always correct, and I spend time forcing others to side with me. If they do not, I look down on their opinions.
I am more educated or experienced, and no one should compare themselves to me.
No matter what others do, I can do better
I never feel sorry for anyone because I believe they put themselves in that position.
I should always have the upper hand
The final decision is always what I want
Treatment for NPD
We must remember that narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition in which people have an unreasonably high sense of importance. Getting a narcissist to accept they have an issue or to get help will take lots of work.
The treatment for NPD primarily consists of talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy. There are no medications for NPD, but if additional issues such as depression, bipolar, and anxiety exist, medicines can be used to treat those illnesses.
Talk therapy
Talk therapy can help you learn how to relate better to others so your relationships can become more stable and rewarding, significantly improving various areas of your life. Therapy can assist you to
Balance and maintain healthy relationships
Recognize your strengths and potential so you can process criticisms
Cope with any self-esteem issues
Set realistic goals for yourself
Set boundaries and respect the boundaries of others
Understanding and regulating your feelings
Minimizing your desire to attain unrealistic goals
To get more details on recent research and to obtain more information, here are a few links that will be helpful:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7216544/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20366662
https://www.psycom.net/personality-disorders/narcissistic
https://psychcentral.com/disorders/what-causes-narcissistic-personality-disorder
