Unmasking Narcissism: The Dirty Truth

The ugly aspects of narcissism that we may be all too familiar with

Photo byQuinn BuffingonUnsplash

Do you ever feel like the world revolves around you?

Do you find yourself always wanting to be the center of attention?

These could be signs that you have some narcissistic tendencies. Many people can have moments in their lives, especially during adolescence or when going through personal challenges, where they may behave narcissistically.

However, understanding your narcissism is vital to becoming aware of and mitigating narcissistic behavior from others around you.

Is Narcissism Bad?

The big question is, does narcissism make someone a narcissist? The short answer is no; for someone to be a narcissist, there is more to it than just high narcissistic traits.

Suggested Reading: Narcissism: A Normal Part of Development

Narcissism isn't inherently bad

The degree to which someone displays narcissism does not determine whether or not they are a narcissist.

Rather, narcissism is a personality trait we all have to some degree.

We all need a little healthy narcissism to ensure we are meeting our needs. In fact, healthy narcissism is the term used to describe a form of healthy self-absorption.

Achieving what we want and understanding what we need is essential, but we shouldn't hurt others in the process.

While some may seem self-absorbed or highly selfish, that doesn't necessarily make them narcissists.

Taking steps to recognize and manage excessive displays of narcissism is vital to maintaining strong relationships with yourself and those around you.

Understanding your own narcissism

There have been numerous measures established to gauge someone's level of narcissism, in an effort to better understand the psychology of narcissism.

The Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) is a 40-question test designed to measure someone's level of narcissism.

This measure does not diagnose you with any disorder, nor can it clinically measure narcissism.

Instead, the NPI measures your narcissism on a scale of 1-40; your score is whatever number you receive out of 40.

The findings of the NPI do not provide conclusive or definitive results. Your score does not assign you a label or rank but instead offers insights into the degree of narcissism you may possess.

My score on the NPI was 5 out of 40, which was average compared to other people who have taken this test.

From this test, I can understand that I may have an average level of narcissism.

The Negative Effects of Narcissism

Narcissists or those with Narcissistic Personality Disorder can harm relationships.

In fact, narcissistic personality disorder is associated with traits that can disrupt interpersonal relationships.

Suggested Reading: Self-Esteem and Narcissism are More Different Than You May Think

High narcissistic traits can lead to difficulties in relationships. Narcissists may be overly demanding or critical of others, expecting constant attention and praise even when they don't show or give much in return.

Damaging effects of high narcissism

I have firsthand experience dealing with narcissism. The narcissist in my life caused a lot of chaos and drama. This left me feeling really drained and lost. Undertanding the psychology of narcissism truly helped me.

The overly confident, cocky person I knew always seemed to have endless confidence. But really, they struggled to manage their low self-esteem, causing them to take out their frustrations on myself and those around me.

Dealing with a narcissist

High narcissism can lead to problems with interpersonal relationships, a sense of entitlement, and a tendency to be exploitative. Narcissism can affect one's self-perception and relationships with others.

In fact, narcissistic vulnerability is linked to difficulty controlling anger and higher levels of shame, so it may be stressful to deal with.

When dealing with a narcissist, it's essential to remember that they may heavily struggle to empathize with or comprehend your emotions; they simply may not even care.

Setting Boundaries

When communicating, patience and setting clear boundaries are vital for managing relationships.

It is essential to set boundaries when needed for your own well-being. That means saying "no" when necessary and protecting your peace.

Read more: Safe Guarding Your Inner Peace from Narcissists

Taking Care of Yourself

It is also essential to practice self-care by avoiding unnecessary interaction and seeking support from family and friends.

Narcissists, or those with high narcissism, may be draining and emotionally taxing. Putting yourself first is a beneficial way of managing stress.

Takeaways

It’s important to remember that not all narcissism is terrible. Some parts of narcissism are essential for healthy functioning, such as feeling some pleasure from the successes you achieve. Only when these feelings become excessive or take over how you live your life do they become a problem, causing issues in relationships and other areas of life?

Suggested Reading: What Makes Someone a Narcissist

It is essential to recognize where you can still have the good parts of narcissism without it resulting in self-centeredness or feelings of entitlement. Learning about yourself and understanding your narcissism is key, followed by creating boundaries and properly regulating your behavior.

Seeking help from a mental health professional is another suggestion if narcissistic behaviors negatively affect your life. Ultimately, being aware of the adverse effects of narcissism can help protect yourself while embracing the positive aspects.

Stay Connected With This Author: https://linktr.ee/ThatPsychNerd

As originally posted on That Psych Nerd