THE PSYCHOLOGY OF NARCISSISM

Long before the era of selfies, the ancient Greeks and Romans recounted a myth about an individual overly fixated on his own image. According to the tale, Narcissus was a handsome man who roamed the world in quest of true love. After spurning a nymph named Echo, he caught sight of his own reflection in a river and became enamored with it. Unable to tear himself away, Narcissus tragically drowned. A flower marked the location of his demise, and it's now known as the Narcissus flower. This myth embodies the concept of narcissism, an excessive and sometimes harmful self-absorption. However, it's not merely a personality trait discussed in advice columns; it's a set of characteristics identified and analyzed by psychologists.

The psychological definition of narcissism entails an inflated, grandiose self-image. To varying extents, narcissists believe they are more attractive, intelligent, and significant than others, and therefore, deserve special treatment. Psychologists recognize two forms of narcissism as a personality trait: grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Additionally, there's a more extreme form known as narcissistic personality disorder, which we'll discuss shortly.

Grandiose narcissism is the more recognizable type, characterized by extroversion, dominance, and a craving for attention. Individuals with grandiose narcissism often seek power and attention, assuming roles such as politicians, celebrities, or cultural influencers. Nonetheless, not everyone pursuing these positions is narcissistic. Many do so for genuinely positive reasons, like realizing their full potential or enhancing people's lives. On the other hand, vulnerable narcissists may be introverted and sensitive, displaying a strong sense of entitlement but being easily threatened or offended. However, the negative aspects of narcissism tend to surface in the long run, as narcissists often act selfishly. This may lead narcissistic leaders to make risky or unethical decisions and partners to be dishonest or unfaithful.

When their idealized self-image is challenged, they can become resentful and aggressive, causing suffering for those around them. Taken to the extreme, this behavior is categorized as narcissistic personality disorder, which affects one to two percent of the population, with men being more commonly affected. It is typically a diagnosis reserved for adults, as young individuals, particularly children, might exhibit self-centered behavior as part of normal development. The fifth edition of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual outlines various traits associated with narcissistic personality disorder, including a grandiose self-view, difficulties with empathy, a sense of entitlement, and a need for admiration. What distinguishes these traits as a true personality disorder is that they disrupt people's lives and cause significant problems.