Narcissism & sex: any link?

Print anything with Printful



Narcissists often view sex as a substitute for emotional intimacy and may use it to gain power or validation. Narcissism and sex can lead to a lack of intimacy and neglect of a partner’s needs. Narcissism is believed to stem from a lack of healthy bonds in childhood.

Narcissism and sex are thought to be interconnected, as people with narcissism often see sex as a substitute for true emotional intimacy in a relationship. Some narcissists view sex as a means to gain power or control over a sexual partner, or as a means to gain validation and self-admiration, hence the perceived link between narcissism and sex addiction. Narcissists are often very concerned about appearances, including maintaining the appearance of a healthy relationship, so they may view sexual intercourse as a necessary task for maintaining a relationship, rather than an act of love and intimacy.

Experts believe that many narcissists dislike sex as much as people without this personality disorder, although some narcissists may view sex as an activity designed solely for their own pleasure and enjoyment, with no thought to the needs and desires of their loved ones. partner. Narcissism and sex, especially in terms of the sexual health of a relationship, often do not mix, as the narcissist may use sex as simply another manipulative tool to force his partner into meeting her needs while neglecting the needs of the other. his partner.

Some experts believe that narcissism and sex addiction go hand in hand, since the narcissist may crave the sense of power over others that he gains through frequent sexual conquests. Most psychologists believe narcissists are incapable of true love and emotional intimacy. For the narcissist, sex can feel more like a solitary activity. Narcissism and sex in a relationship can lead to a greater sense of isolation and abandonment for the non-narcissistic partner, as the narcissistic partner may feel more separated from the relationship with each sexual act. If both partners suffer from narcissism, sex can become an attempt to merge into one entity with identical needs and desires, as the narcissist is unable to recognize the reality of separate and individual sets of needs and desires unique to both the people in the relationship.

The causes of narcissism are believed to be rooted in early childhood. Most experts think that people develop narcissism when they don’t form appropriately close, loving, healthy, and respectful bonds with their parents or other caregivers in early childhood. The inability to bond with caregivers early in life can cause narcissists to falter in personal development, such that they fail to develop true feelings of self-worth. As a result, they often seek relationships with others who may be perceived as desirable by society at large, as a means of proving themselves. They typically expect these people to soothe their inner pain and turmoil by showering them with unwavering, flawless affection and meeting all of their needs except those of their partner.




Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN


Skip to content