Pathological narcissism is a severe form of narcissism that can harm the sufferer’s life. It is diagnosed when narcissistic traits make a normal lifestyle impossible. Narcissists often lack empathy and struggle to maintain healthy relationships, and the disorder may stem from a lack of normal bonding with caregivers. Narcissists are often unaware of their condition and abusive towards others, making it difficult for them to acknowledge their dysfunctional behavior.
Pathological narcissism is a type of narcissism that is so severe that it causes harm to the sufferer’s life. A certain amount of self-love is considered normal, healthy, and even desirable. A truly pathological narcissist, however, typically has an exaggerated sense of self-worth and generally believes they are better than almost anyone else. This usually leads to the narcissist treating others terribly, and they are often rude, incredibly demanding, self-centered, and lack the ability to empathize with other people. Severe narcissism generally hinders interpersonal relationships, so that people with this personality disorder often have few or no relationships, and those relationships they do have are often initiated and conducted for the narcissist’s sole benefit, even as other parties involved end up to be seriously injured.
Psychiatrists have identified a number of personality traits that may indicate pathological narcissism, including excessive self-importance and complete disregard for the needs and feelings of others. Many people may have some of the traits of narcissism, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they suffer from pathological narcissism. This personality disorder is typically diagnosed when narcissistic traits make a normal lifestyle impossible.
True narcissists often find it nearly impossible to maintain a healthy romantic relationship, typically have few or no friends, and are usually not close to their families. They may also suffer from poor performance at work or school, although many people with narcissism are very successful, as their exaggerated sense of self-pride can prompt them to try harder professionally and academically. In the worst cases, people with narcissism can find themselves completely without friends, lovers, or close relatives. They can often struggle with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues.
Psychologists aren’t entirely sure what causes pathological narcissism. They believe personality disorder forms when infants and toddlers fail to enjoy normal bonding with caregivers. However, it is quite difficult to study this personality disorder because people who have it are often unaware of their condition.
The nature of pathological narcissism is such that the sufferer can never acknowledge their own dysfunctional behavior or admit that they may have a problem. Narcissists are generally very abusive to others, so they fail to develop relationships with people who might point out their disorderly behaviors. Most psychologists admit that even when narcissists form relationships, other parties are typically too afraid of a backlash to point out the narcissist’s flaws.
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