Narcissism and revenge are linked as narcissists may retaliate when their self-esteem is attacked. Narcissistic personalities vary and may seek revenge for perceived wrongs or attempts to control their environment. Childhood experiences can contribute to the development of narcissism and revenge-seeking behaviors.
Narcissism is a broad term that is used to describe a number of different but related psychological phenomena and conditions relating to self-love and self-esteem or, more often, self-obsession and exaggerated self-esteem. According to some psychological theories, notably Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalysis, a certain degree of narcissism is necessary for healthy psychological development. An individual who possesses an exaggerated sense of self-worth, often referred to as a “narcissist,” is often unable to handle criticism or perceived attacks on her self-esteem. Such an individual may become enraged by such perceived attacks and may, therefore, take action to retaliate. Narcissism and revenge are, therefore, often closely linked as a perceived attack on a narcissist’s worth can lead to an act of revenge.
The relationship between revenge and narcissism is a complex one as the personalities of narcissistic individuals can vary drastically. One individual may be insulted and may seek revenge for a gesture or word that was not even intended as criticism or attack, while another may only respond vindictively to direct criticism, constructive or otherwise. The relationship between narcissism and revenge can also vary in terms of the methods used for revenge. Some may simply attempt to devalue the results or socially undermine the perceived abuser, while others may become enraged and attempt to physically harm the “aggressor.”
A variety of different psychological theories provide possible explanations for the connection between narcissism and revenge-seeking behaviors. Freud, for example, posited that various traumas early in childhood sexual development were responsible for narcissistic personalities that could lead to feelings of a need for revenge for perceived wrongs. Other theories of narcissism and revenge are based on the narcissist’s need to control his external environment as much as possible. Revenge is aimed at those who attempt to usurp that control and can be seen as an attempt to reassert control.
Narcissism and narcissistic-based revenge-seeking behaviors tend to develop from various aspects of a child’s rearing. Children whose parents overpraised even trivial accomplishments, for example, tend to handle criticism poorly and may even respond poorly to a perceived lack of praise. Children who, on the other hand, receive harsh and constant criticism may also have difficulty dealing with criticism as adults and are likely to perceive attacks in casual comments or even compliments. Such individuals may use revenge as a tool to restore self-esteem and reassert their control over their environment.
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