Characteristics And Comparisons: The Psychology Of Narcissism
958 Words4 Pages
Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by an exceptional interest in and admiration for oneself. First identified as a mental disorder by Havelock Ellis, narcissists - when their confidence is threatened - tend to exploit and take other people for granted. So what drives narcissists to be narcissistic? Can they improve on their negative traits? Here’s what W. Keith Campbell explains in one of the TED-Ed lessons – The Psychology Of Narcissism.
To start with, Campbell talks of the myth that the ancient Greeks and Romans once had about someone who is little too obsessed with his own image. He cites mythological Narcissus - a handsome egotistical guy who rejected a nymph named Echo and fell in love with his own reflection – to explain…show more content… Also, they tend to look excessively to others just to boost their self-esteem and think that they are more important than others and that they deserve special treatment. Although, in fact, narcissists feel superior, have impaired empathy and personality traits of attention-seeking, they are never satisfied with themselves either.
Psychologists recognize two forms of narcissism. They are:
1. Grandiose narcissism, and
2. Vulnerable narcissism.
Grandiose narcissism is the most familiar kind of narcissism, which is characterized by extroversion, dominance and attention seeking. Pretty sure the narcissists we have often come across are grandiose narcissists.
“Grandiose narcissists pursue attention and power, sometimes as politicians, celebrities, or cultural leaders,” the video explains.
“Of course, not everyone who pursues these positions of power is narcissistic. Many do it for very positive reasons, like reaching their full potential, or helping make people's lives better. But narcissistic individuals seek power for the status and attention that goes with…show more content… Imagine that instead of caring for your spouse or children, you used them as a source of attention or admiration. Or imagine that instead of seeking constructive feedback about your performance, you instead told everyone who tried to help you that they were wrong.”
What Are The Causes Of Narcissism
The actual causes of narcissistic personality disorder are not known, however psychologists think the disorder maybe linked to “genetics” and “faulty or inadequate parenting.” For example, the gap between the standards set by parents and the standards set by own self can lead to anxiety, and this in turn, can cause to become egocentric (as one of the individual’s ego defense mechanisms.)
“Twin studies show a strong genetic component, although we don't know which genes are involved. But environment matters, too,” the video explains. “Parents who put their child on a pedestal can foster grandiose narcissism. And cold, controlling parents can contribute to vulnerable