Narcissism is a psychological disorder associated with grandiosity, a need for admiration and a lack of empathy. Narcissistic traits tend to run on a continuum. A higher psychologically functioning narcissist is often successful and charming but may have intimacy problems in relationships. A person who has a more severe form of narcissism may appear nearly delusional with his grandiosity and may act out destructively when he feels criticized. Narcissistic behavior involves much idealization and devaluation.
Grandiosity
The grandiosity a narcissistic person displays may be seen in overt behavior or in a preoccupation with fantasies. She may exaggerate achievements and talents or be preoccupied with fantasies involving infinite success, power, brilliance, beauty and ideal love. A narcissist also often requires much admiration and struggles with envy.
Entitlement
A narcissist may believe he is special, so certain rules and policies do not apply to him. He may expect unreasonable favors and special treatment because of his extraordinary nature. A narcissist can also appear arrogant and conceited.
Lack of Empathy
A narcissist can be demanding and exploitative in relationships. She usually has trouble considering someone else's point of view and trouble showing compassion toward others. She may even show contempt toward people she believes are inferior to her. Because of her belief that she is special, she may think she can associate with and be understood by only others of her status.
Idealization and Devaluation
Idealization and devaluation are strongly characteristic of narcissistic defenses. A narcissist is often overly involved in comparing himself to others. When he fails to measure up, he may become depressed, ashamed and envious. To defend against an injured self-esteem, a narcissist engages in idealizing and devaluing. Idealization helps the narcissist regain a sense of specialness by association with another extraordinary person. When he devalues someone, however, he maintains his fragile self-esteem by feeling superior to the person devalued.
References
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual; Alliance of Psychoanalytic Organizations; 2006
