Things to know: The psychology of a Narcissist

Have you ever met a narcissist? If yes, how was the experience? If not, let us introduce you who narcissist are and why they are the way they are.

First off, narcissism is a personality disorder. It is a condition where an individual excessively admires oneself. They are not in love with themselves, but to their grandiose image, they create in their heads. They are arrogant and self-centred.

Traits of a narcissist:

This disorder includes a variety of symptoms in a person. Some of them are: self-prioritization, need for attention and compliments, and the need to win over and gain control.

Other symptoms are – not having empathy or no concern for others’ feelings, wanting to be the best at everything.

Narcissists are very resistant to changing their behavior, which might cause problems with others. They cannot withstand criticisms or even disagreements.

To fill their ego, they lie frequently and exaggerate things that give them pleasure.

Narcissists, due to placing over-emphasis on themselves, violate rules. They cut lines, borrow others item and fail to return, invade personal space or even violate traffic rules.

Narcissism and Confidence:

Narcissists lack the capability to evaluate their own self-worth. Hence, they try to evaluate their self worth from those who surround them.

But here’s an important point! Although narcissists show extreme confidence, they are actually the most insecure people who need constant validation.

Underlying causes:

However, it’s vital to understand why and what prompts them to be narcissistic. The first cause is genetics and it is very self-explanatory. Inherited qualities are difficult to get rid of.

The second cause is the environment and upbringing. A surrounding where there’s excessive admiration or too much criticism can also encourage narcissistic personality.

Lastly, neurobiology also plays a huge role. The connection between the brain and behaviour can trigger narcissism.

Words of caution

However, many people may incline towards narcissism and can carry some of the traits. But, it doesn’t necessarily mean they have this disorder as well.

Recap:

• Narcissists are excessively self-centred people
• Narcissists lack the ability to evaluate themselves
• Narcissism can be genetic, environment or neurology
• Some people may have some characteristics of narcissism that does not mean they are all narcissists.

Narcissists have a grandiose image of themselves in their heads. This can lead to bad communication and even difficulty in working as a team. Narcissism is treatable.

If you have someone who is near to you and suffers from this disorder, let them know there are treatment options.

Recommended Reads:

• Easy 5 Tricks Which Enhance Your Confidence
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Introduction, Causes, & Symptoms
• How can you Get Rid of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?