| Narcissistic Personality Disorder |  |
|
 |
|
» Conditions » Personality Disorders » Narcissistic Personality Disorder
What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity in fantasy or behavior, an extreme need for admiration, and a marked lack of empathy. The disorder usually begins by early adulthood and presents a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms
Feelings of Grandiosity
Not only do people with this disorder feel superior to others, but they also believe they are exceptionally unique and special and are entitled to special treatment simply because they are who they are. They may envy others while believing that others are envying them. They may exaggerate their accomplishments and talents.
Need for Admiration
People with this disorder seek constant admiration, adulation, and bolstering from others. They may be ambitious for fame and admiration rather than for success.
Lack of Empathy
They have good social skills when it comes to initial contact with others. They may be quite charming in an attempt to gain the other person's awe. However, they are so focused on themselves that they are not capable of empathizing with others.
Preoccupation with Fantasy
People with narcissistic personality disorder often fantasize about wealth and fame.
Overly High Expectations
If they do not achieve the goals they have set for themselves, they feel a strong sense of failure which brings feelings of shame and worthlessness. They often react to criticism with rage.
Causes
Narcissistic personality disorder has as many causes as there are people who suffer from it. The disorder may be caused by a combination of a person's parental upbringing, their personality and social development, as well as genetic and biological factors. Less than 1% of the general population has this disorder.
Treatment
In other disorders, brief therapy can result in improved personality change. However, brief therapy has not been shown to do the same for narcissistic personality disorder.
While it can take more time, insight-oriented therapy (also called psychodynamic therapy) can be effective in treating this particular disorder. Insight-oriented therapy provides the individual with greater insight into their problems and analyzes aspects of their personality while relating them to childhood conflicts.
Just as with other personality disorders, the client-therapist relationship is crucial. As the therapist empathizes with the client about his or her sensitivities and disappointments it encourages the client to develop those same empathetic skills.
See also:
|
 |
 |
|
