There are some people that are seen having narcissistic personality disorder. It is a mental condition in which people think highly of themselves and have an inflated sense of self-importance, have a deep need of seeking attention, admiration but also suffer from troubled relationships and lack empathy for others. A narcissist wears a mask of good confidence behind which lies low self-esteem and vulnerability to slightest criticism. Narcissists can be found everywhere, and they are incredibly draining to deal with. But it can be prevented and treated. Here is all you need to know about them from a psychologist’s perspective and tips to deal with them socially……

What is Narcissism?

Narcissism can be defined as a self-centered personality type that is characterized in having excessive interest in one’s physical appearance and self-image and being selfish at the expense of others. They have unfulfilling professional and personal relationships and people with them do not enjoy being around them. Narcissists are unhappy and disappointed when not favored and admired by their peer group and family. There are many levels of narcissism seen in people commonly. History has many examples of narcissistic people hence, it’s not a new found disorder or a new discovered disease.  Prevention of narcissism is possible. 

What Are The Symptoms Of A Narcissistic Personality?

A narcissist’s traits are such as exaggerating own achievements, live in their own fantasy world, are envious of others and believe everyone envies them, take advantage of others to get what they want, are impatient, short-tempered, have secretive feelings of shame, humiliation, lack security in mind, experience issues in dealing with stress and adapting to change. These are all signs and symptoms of narcissism. 

How Is Narcissism Caused?

It is not an inherited genetic trait completely or acquired trait during childhood or adulthood. It is based on a biopsychosocial model of causation that not only integrates biology and genetics but also social environment and psychological adjustment. So both the environment and society also play an important role in the development of narcissistic personality in a person. This is the root cause of narcissism. 

What Are The Risk Factors Associated With A Narcissistic Personality?

It affects males more than females. It usually begins in teens and early adulthood. Some psychologists also think that biologically vulnerable children in whom parenting has been different like either has been overprotective or negative, creates an impact on these children making them grow as narcissistic adults. Genetics and neurobiology also play a role in this. It is the connection between the inherited characteristics and brain or behavior or way of thinking. 

Is Narcissism On The Rise?

It has been researched that it has been on rise in the last thirty years. A study found that narcissistic personality people are found not only in India, America but all parts of the globe. A study also found that 9.4% of 20-29 year olds exhibit extreme and heightened narcissism, as compared to 3.2% of those people who are older than 65 years of age. Social media is also responsible for development of narcissistic personalities as people develop a fake image by posting fake pictures and posts, getting impressed by celebrities and copying them. 

When Is It Important To See A Doctor For Narcissistic Behavior?

People with this kind of personality do not feel that they are abnormal, or anything is wrong with their personality so they don’t feel like going to doctor and hence, this personality type sometimes may go undetected as these people are not mentally ill although but are over-inflated with their one’s self and are self-involved. Their presence however can be toxic to other people or their well-being.

What Are The Other Complications That Can Happen With A Narcissistic Personality Disorder Person?

• Relationship difficulties
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Suicidal thoughts
• Problems at workplace or school or family
• Physical health issues
• Drug misuse
• Alcohol misuse

Why Is Narcissism Difficult To Treat?

It is so because patients are unwilling to take therapy or believe that they have an indifferent personality type. They are not sick rather feel they are more talented, special and superior than others which may not be true. However, according to psychologists, the best therapy for them is psychotherapy and talk therapy. Also the best way to deal with them personally is to love them from afar which means not shut them out from your lives, but not deeply engage or involve yourself with them by keeping a healthy distance from them and still loving them. All types of narcissism have similar treatment and signs.

SO NEXT TIME YOU COME ACROSS SOMEONE WHO SELF IMPOSED TOO MUCH OF THEIR IDEAS ON YOU OR SHOWS THE TRAIT THAT THEY ARE TOO PERFECT THAN ANYONE ELSE, BE MINDFUL THAT THEY ARE A NARCISSIST! 

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