Narcissistic personality disorder causes erratic, manipulative, and self-centered behavior, which is difficult to treat. It can lead to addiction, difficulty maintaining relationships, and even suicide. Treatment involves psychotherapy to address low self-esteem and improve relationships.
Individuals who pervasively engage in narcissistic behaviors typically suffer from a mental condition called narcissistic personality disorder. Their behavior tends to be erratic, manipulative, and self-centered. In some cases, a person suffering from this condition can become both physically and emotionally abusive. This type of behavior is also extremely difficult to treat. Although women can develop the disorder, it is typically more common among men.
There are many different aspects to narcissistic behavior, but the main aspect includes behavior that enables the sufferer to pursue goals that only benefit themselves. Typically, those with this condition are unable to relate to other people’s emotions and view any form of criticism as a personal attack. They may react with extreme anger or violence in these situations, or twist their perceived abuser’s words to sound like victims.
Another aspect of narcissistic behavior is that of a great sense of self-importance. Those with the disorder often act as if they are better and more important than others around them. At the same time, however, those with narcissistic personality disorder actually have very low self-esteem. They typically require consistent praise and affection, and will become angry or sulky if they are not the center of attention.
Researchers aren’t sure why people develop narcissistic behaviors. While some patients are known to have experienced extreme emotional abuse and neglect as children, others came from homes where they received nothing but praise. Environmental factors are usually not enough to create the disturbance; typically, patients have certain genetic traits that make them predisposed to mental conditions. Narcissistic personality disorder generally does not become apparent until early adulthood, as when children exhibit traits of the disorder, it is considered age-appropriate behavior
Narcissistic behavior can lead to several complications both in the lives of sufferers and in the lives of those around them. Many patients with this disorder also suffer from an addictive personality and become addicted to drugs or alcohol. They also have difficulty maintaining personal relationships, as their behavior can be very difficult to deal with. Some narcissistic personalities become depressed or commit suicide, especially if they feel like they aren’t getting the attention they deserve.
This type of behavior is difficult to treat because there are no drugs for the disorder. Treatment typically revolves around various types of psychotherapy, including group therapy and family-focused sessions. The main goal of treatment is to address the underlying problem of low self-esteem by helping the patient learn to relate better to others. Those with severe narcissistic personality disorder may take years to reach a breakthrough, or they may never be able to alter their behavior.
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