Narcissistic peronality disorder - causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, pathology

Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by individuals who have a grandiose self-image, meaning they think they're more attractive, intelligent, and talented than they actually are.

Since people with narcissistic personality disorder believe they're so special, they expect to be treated as such.

They'll often obsessively demand the best of everything, seeking preferential treatment in professional settings, and demanding things from their friends and family that might be well beyond their loved ones' financial means.

People with narcissistic personality disorder also think that their ideas are inherently the best and that other people should understand this and support them.

Behind this mask of ultra-confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that's vulnerable to the slightest criticism, which causes them to lash out if they feel slighted.

People with narcissistic personality disorder typically come across as being pretentious, self-centered, and entitled.

They lack empathy and are often oblivious to feelings of others.

They often exploit those around them and only get involved in situations that advance their personal goals.

Narcissistic personality disorder isn't caused by any one specific thing.

People with the disorder are very likely to have a family member with the condition as well.

And some research suggests the condition can be inherited.

However, it's thought a person's social relationships and their culture play a significant role in the development of the disorder.

For example, people who are overly praised, excessively rewarded for behavior, or rarely given criticism may develop the disorder.

The opposite can also be true: children who are neglected by their family or communities and don't form strong emotional relationships with caregivers may also develop the disorder.

Modern Western cultures which promote individuality have higher prevalence rates of narcissistic personality disorder than more traditional, community-focused cultures.

Narcissistic personality disorder is most often treated through therapy.

Such as cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy.

This can be challenging, as part of the disorder involves the person being unable to understand the consequences of their behavior.

As a result, most people with this disorder don't seek out treatment for it specifically.

Often they seek treatment for other mental health illnesses, like depression or substance abuse, and their healthcare team identifies narcissistic personality disorder.

All right.

Here's a quick recap.

Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health disorder where people have, in essence, an overinflated ego.

They think they're more important than they actually are.

But when faced with criticism, they become self-conscious and lash out at others.

Treatment for the disorder involves therapy, however, the nature of the disease often prevents people from identifying their symptoms and they rarely seek treatment.