Somatic narcissism is a psychological disorder where individuals become obsessed with their physical appearance, leading to difficulties in relationships and isolation. It is a manifestation of the larger narcissistic disorder, which can be caused by a combination of factors, including childhood trauma and genetic predisposition. Treatment options include therapy and counseling.
Somatic narcissism is a documented psychological disorder in which a person becomes obsessed with their beauty, personality, and sex appeal — basically all the outward characteristics that make a person attractive. However, the disorder usually involves more than just fixating on these physical details. Sufferers are usually so focused on thoughts of their own appearance that they can think of little else, and obsession can and often intrudes into other aspects of life. These people have difficulty maintaining close friendships and forming meaningful romantic relationships, for example, and often feel very isolated. Most experts think the disorder is caused by a combination of subjective factors, such as childhood trauma and parental pressure, and more intrinsic characteristics, such as genetic predisposition. Not much is known about exactly why people show symptoms, but in most cases, the condition is treatable with therapy and counseling.
Basics of narcissism in general
Most experts believe that somatic narcissism is just one manifestation of the larger narcissistic disorder. Scholars usually divide narcissism into two branches: somatic, which concerns the body and physical appearance, and cerebral, which focuses almost exclusively on intellect and immaterial self-esteem.
While a cerebral narcissist will fixate on his intellect and brag about academic or career achievements, someone with the somatic form of the condition will obsess over his beauty, personality, and sex appeal. Narcissism disorder in both cases usually requires psychiatric treatment. The disorder prevents sufferers from having satisfying relationships with other people as, in most cases, the narcissist feels nothing beyond their own desires.
In many cases the term “narcissist” is used somewhat casually to describe a person who seems more selfish than most, but its clinical significance is actually very serious. People who have the disorder, both somatic and cerebral, are unable to control their obsessions. They usually don’t spend time in front of the mirror because they want to, for example, but because they can’t help themselves. This can sometimes be difficult for sane people to understand, particularly when the narcissist’s actions cause emotional damage.
Key features of the somatic disorder
People who suffer from somatic versions of narcissism typically view themselves as irresistible. They may develop a sexual attraction to themselves and may prefer their own company to being in an actual relationship with someone else. They often flaunt their bodies in an attempt to show how beautiful they are and to earn admiration.
The symptoms of somatic narcissism are often evident, although they may appear only at certain times. The somatic narcissist craves attention and those in a relationship with one may not recognize the problem at first. People who have this disorder are usually unable to have meaningful relationships with others, and because they cannot relate emotionally to their partners, they are often unfaithful. They see relationships as power plays and are always looking for something better or more worthy.
The self-involvement that accompanies the disorder can lead narcissists to believe they are entitled to whatever they want. In somatic cases, this often results in numerous sexual encounters and romantic “girlfriends,” often with no regard for the partners’ feelings or desires.
Main causes
Experts aren’t exactly sure what causes people to develop the condition, although there is some evidence it could be genetic. Tests have shown that the disorder can be passed on from one generation to the next in some families. A genetic cause can make treatment more difficult, but it can also help pinpoint which therapies will be successful.
Sexual or mental abuse could also be to blame. Psychiatrists have shown that, in some cases, children who have been abused for extended periods of time by trusted adults may rationalize the abuse they experience and ultimately view it as their own fault. Children in these situations may become convinced that they are simply too irresistible, even to family members who are supposed to be trustworthy. This belief can turn into somatic narcissism in some individuals.
Treatment options
Psychiatric help is almost always needed for someone to overcome symptoms and lead a more normal and fruitful life. The most common form of relief is counseling and therapy, with medication usually reserved for very extreme cases. Therapy can help a narcissist discover how to handle emotions properly, which can help him develop fulfilling relationships with others. Families of narcissists are also often in therapy, often to learn how to deal with narcissistic behavior and otherwise help the narcissistic loved one.
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