Narcissism

Narcissism and relationships - The lonely throne: A rocking chair in a decaying room symbolizes the isolation and emptiness at the heart of narcissism, a kingdom built on fleeting admiration and ultimately devoid of genuine connection.

Narcissism and Relationships: The Lonely Throne

Narcissism and relationships can be a complex and often painful mix. The concept of narcissism itself carries a duality: a healthy love for oneself is not only beneficial but essential, echoing the Gospel’s wisdom to ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’ However, narcissism becomes a destructive force when rooted in a deeply negative self-image. This distorted […]

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A close-up of a wilting dandelion, its yellow petals beginning to curl and brown, representing the underlying vulnerability and emotional fragility associated with the development of narcissism.

Narcissism: Underlying Dynamics and Early Experiences

Childhood experiences significantly influence the development of narcissistic traits. Feeling loved is fundamental for healthy self-esteem. However, if love is conditional—whether through excessive praise for superficial achievements like appearance or popularity, or through neglect and devaluation—the child may develop a fragile sense of self, dependent on external validation. They learn to hide perceived weaknesses and

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What is Narcissism? Often, it involves a deep sense of isolation and a fragile self-image, visually represented by this image of a solitary chair in a misty landscape.

What is Narcissism? Understanding the Basics and Beyond

In our era of selfies and influencers, social media can amplify narcissistic tendencies. This constant pursuit of external validation can blur the line between healthy self-esteem and destructive narcissism, potentially reaching the level of what psychiatrists call Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). But what does it truly mean to be narcissistic? The term is often misused

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Shattered glass representing the inner fragility and vulnerability often hidden beneath a narcissistic exterior, contributing to the stigma of narcissism.

Understanding the Stigma of Narcissism

In an age increasingly focused on mental health, the term “narcissist” is often misused as an insult—a dispregiative label synonymous with “bad person,” “egotist,” or “manipulator.” This simplification is harmful, preventing individuals (and those who love them) from seeking help. Narcissistic personality traits are complex, with nuances and varying degrees of severity. Ignoring the underlying

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