Narcissistic behavior, clinically referred to as narcissistic personality disorder, affects how a person views himself. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that a narcissistic person has a preoccupation with himself, an exaggerated self-esteem and one who reacts with anger to criticism. A narcissistic person may also take advantage of other people to get ahead. The Cleveland Clinic notes that no cure exists for narcissistic behavior, though the main treatment, psychotherapy, can help people change their behavior.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
The Mayo Clinic states that cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on the underlying behaviors and thoughts that cause the narcissistic behavior. For example, the therapy can help the patient relate to others, rather than focusing only on herself. This type of therapy gives the patient insight into her behaviors, such as what are the triggers for certain behaviors. The patient learns to change her unhealthy behavior to positive ones. Cognitive behavioral therapy can take place on an individual basis, or in a group setting with other patients with narcissistic behavior.
Group Therapy
In a group situation, the narcissistic patient works with other patients who have the same problem, which can help him relate to other people, according to the Mayo Clinic. This type of therapy shows the patient the consequences his behavior has on other people. Psych Central adds that the therapist holds a less authoritative role in this type of therapy, which reduces how severe the emotional experience is for the patient.
Hospitalization
Patients with severe narcissistic behaviors may need to be hospitalized. Psych Central states that these patients have a poor grasp on reality, are impulsive or self-destructive; hospitalization in these cases is brief. If a narcissistic patient has a chaotic lifestyle or does not respond well to outpatient treatment, she may benefit from long-term hospitalization.
Family Therapy
Some patients may benefit from family therapy, which brings patients together with their families. The Mayo Clinic states that family therapy becomes a space where the entire family can discuss issues associated with the narcissism, and increase the amount of communication. Families can also learn more about the patients' personality disorder and how to cope with it.
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