The term narcissism, based on the Greek myth of Narcissus and first used by Sigmund Freud, describes a set of characteristics that include self-centeredness, self-admiration and self-love. Nearly everyone has some degree of narcissistic personality traits, and mild, or subclinical, forms of narcissism may even be beneficial. However, some people exhibit intense narcissistic traits, which may result in a tumultuous life and prevent the formation of long-term relationships with others. When narcissistic traits are this extreme, a diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder is typically given. People with this disorder have no regard for the feelings or needs of others, require excessive admiration, feel entitled to special treatment, have unreasonable expectations of others, and are easily offended. Identifying a narcissist can be difficult, as many appear charming and successful in the early stages of a relationship.
Identification
Narcissists are not always easy to identify until a close relationship is formed. Most narcissists share a number of common traits, including difficulty with empathy and in sustaining meaningful, long-term relationships, hypersensitivity to real or imagined criticism, a lack of psychological awareness and an inability to recognize even the most obvious narcissistic traits, an overwhelming self-focus in social settings and interpersonal exchanges, and feelings of shame. Those who suffer from Narcissistic Personality Disorder may also have a grandiose sense of self-importance, be preoccupied with fantasies involving power, success, beauty, or ideal love, require excessive admiration from others, believe that they are better than others or special in some way, and have a sense of entitlement. Narcissists also typically believe that others are envious or jealous of their talents or achievements, and may frequently take advantage of others in order to obtain success or power.
Types
Narcissism exists to various degrees in different people. Nearly everyone has some narcissistic qualities, and children and teenagers typically go through a normal narcissistic stage of development. When narcissism affects a person's relationships, thinking and behavior, it becomes a disorder. If these narcissistic patterns dominate the personality, the person is generally given a diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, or NPD.
Effects
The effect of narcissism on professional, social, and intimate relationships is often devastating. Although narcissists may find professional success early due to their confidence and desire for power, this success is often short-lived. Narcissistic traits often prevent long-term job satisfaction, and inner feelings of insecurity combined with an excessive need for admiration and praise may strain professional relationships. Damage caused by narcissistic behavior is typically the most severe in romantic and intimate relationships, and most narcissists have trouble forming commitments, remaining faithful, and relating to loved ones in a reciprocal manner. Although they might appear charming and appealing during the early stages of relationships, narcissists quickly slip back into patterns of putting their own needs and desires before those of their partner. Romantic relationships rarely last longer than a few months.
Benefits
Subclinical forms of narcissism may actually be beneficial, as many people who display mild symptoms are less likely to be depressed and are more likely to feel content and in control of their surroundings. Subclinical narcissists may also recover more quickly from trauma, whether physical or emotional. Mild narcissism may also encourage healthy degrees of risk-taking behavior, resulting in career advancement and financial success.
Theories/Speculation
Much speculation exists about the causes of narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Some experts believe narcissism is primarily genetic, but many psychoanalysts strongly believe the cause of narcissism is rooted in childhood. Few studies have been done to date on the causes of narcissism, but researchers have implicated a high-frequency recessive gene as a genetic explanation for the personality trait and disorder. Experts who discount the genetic explanation, and believe parenting is the basis for the development of excessive narcissism, are evenly split on the details of this theory. Some believe over-critical and demanding parenting methods result in the development of NPD, while others believe the opposite is true, and that permissive parenting styles are to blame. Considerably more work is needed before the causes of narcissism can be fully understood.
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