Narcissistic Behavior

Narcissistic behavior is the outcome of a personality disorder known as narcissistic personality disorder. It is characterized by a distorted self-image, intense emotions, intense love for self and an exaggerated sense of superiority. These behavior characteristics are actually used as defense mechanisms by a narcissist, to conceal his deep sense of insecurity and low self-esteem.

Narcissism is defined as intense admiration or affection for self. This term has been derived from a Greek myth, in which a handsome young man named Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection after seeing it in a pool of water. The term was first used in the context of the human mind and behavior by Austrian psychiatrist, Sigmund Freud.

The causes for narcissistic personality disorder can be traced back to the childhood of the person suffering from the disorder. By the onset of early adulthood, the trauma experienced in childhood engulfs the mind of the individual. Excessive pampering, parents pressurizing the child to do something in order to enhance their own self esteem, neglect by the parents or abuse by elders can eventually trigger narcissistic personality disorder.

Narcissistic Behavior Traits or Characteristics
A person suffering from narcissistic personality disorder exhibits some specific behavior traits or patterns.

• Narcissists are hypersensitive to insults, defeat, criticism, and often tend to react aggressively when faced with such situations.
• They are introverts, hence they don't make it obvious even if they are hurt.
• They are preoccupied with fantasies related to power, wealth, success and love.
• They feel that they are special and hence desire to be treated in a special way.
• They lack the ability to understand humane emotions. They don't try to understand other people's needs, feelings or viewpoints.
• Narcissists are self-centered and consider themselves to be superior to others.
• They are boastful and often indulge in exaggerating themselves and their achievements.
• They set unrealistic goals for themselves and don't hesitate in taking extreme measures to attain these goals.
• They like being constantly admired and crave to be the center of attraction always.
• They appear very arrogant in nature and sport an unnecessary attitude or ego most of the time.
• They are always envious about others but simultaneously think that other people are envious about them.

A person suffering from narcissistic personality disorder may take to drug abuse and alcoholism as a means of coping with their difficulties. This disorder hampers the development of healthy relationships between this person and other members of his family and society.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Diagnosis
The medical history and physical tests of the patient are taken into consideration during the diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder. Physical tests include blood tests or x-rays done to rule out the chances of physical illness. In the absence of any physical illness as the cause of the disorder, the individual is referred to a psychiatrist or a psychologist. The psychiatrists use specially designed assessment tools and interviews to ascertain whether the person is suffering from narcissistic personality disorder.

Treatment of Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Although there is no medicine which can guarante curing this disorder successfully, psychotherapy is believed to be an effective way to tackle narcissistic personality disorder. Psychotherapy is used

• To provide the individual with greater self awareness and insight into his problem.
• To develop better self esteem and a realistic self image.
• To inculcate a more realistic approach towards the society.

It is believed that psychotherapy or counseling can help a person come out of the trauma that triggers narcissistic personality disorder. Medicines are used to treat the symptoms of distress that occur with this disorder.

Narcissism exists in every individual to some extent. According to Sigmund Freud, healthy narcissism is a must for normal development, as it forms a constant and realistic self interest and helps to set mature goals and great values. But as they say 'anything in excess is not good.'