1. The Love Safety Net

You may find it helpful to understand the concept of narcissism as related to NPD (narcissistic personality disorder). This is a term that describes a pattern of behaviour that is common in all humans to differing degrees. It is sometimes stated that a dash of narcissism is necessary and healthy for survival and self preservation and in fact true narcissism, as in smiling for the camera, feeling special or important and/or using charm to gain attention and adoration, is actually not the problem at all. It is when these behaviours are coupled with aggression and a need to control others and irresponsibility that the word begins to gain it’s more modern translation (which in fact refers more closely to the set of behaviours associated with NPD). These behaviours create very difficult and painful relationships and can cause some really hard feelings and emotional damage.

While we tolerate a certain degree of this type of narcissism in children, it is something we usually expect to see diminish with age; NPD tendencies  could in fact be described as immaturity.

Although it is sometimes said that there is no cure for this personality disorder, we dispute this and have seen narcissistic people face their false pride and take on the task of learning new skills to improve their relationships and behaviour. Please note however that this is a serious and stubborn condition and you will definitely need support in handling your partner’s abusive and selfish nature and in protecting yourself if you are the partner of someone suffering from this disorder.

We all display these tendencies to some degree, especially when there is confusion about what is expected of us (or there are conflicting or unrealistic expectations on us) and so it is important to understand narcissism, it’s causes and have some idea how to manage this in ourselves and others. Unfortunately, appeals to reason and a person’s better nature will rarely work when dealing with a person’s narcissistic or NPD tendencies.

If you are interested you can read more about Steve and my personal battle and victory over NPD in our eBooks on this subject  HERE

Is Narcissism Wrecking your Relationship?

1. •Narcissism - Kim’s Treatise
   

2. •Understanding Narcissism
   

1. •Narcissism - Getting Help
   

2. •Narcissism Answers
   

3. •Narcissism Cured - Kim and Steve’s Story
   

4. •Narcissism Support
   

5. •Narcissism - Steve’s Site for the Narcissist

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