Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Personality Quizzes

I Simply Adore the Image in the Mirror

Published on August 14, 2008

Pride is a powerful narcotic, but it doesn't do much for the autoimmune system. -- Stuart Stevens

As you probably know, Narcissistic Personality Disorder was named after the Greek mythical figure, Narcissus. He was the son of the river, Cephissus, and the nymph, Liriope. In my professional opinion, his parentage explains a great deal about his problems. I ask you, how much nurturing and guidance can one expect from a flowing river and a nymph. According to Julia Kristeva's Tales of Love, "As he tried to quench his thirst... he saw an image in the pool and feel in love with that unbodied hope, and found a substance in what was only shadow." If I understand this correctly, he fell in love with his image in the water. Exclusive preoccupation with self is the defining feature of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Is it really self-love? You decide after you learn more about this maddening disorder.

The essential feature of Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a "pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration and lack of empathy that begins in early adulthood" (DSM IV, 1996, p. 658). These are unique individuals. They comprise only 1% of the general population.

1. She/he reacts to criticism with feelings of rage, shame or humiliation (even if not expressed).

Yes

2. She/he is interpersonally exploitive (i.e., takes advantage of others to achieve her/his goals).

Yes

3. She/he has a grandiose sense of self-importance (i.e., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be treated as "special" without appropriate achievement).

Yes

4. She/he believes that his/her problems are unique and can be understood only by other special people (or other people who see their specialness).

Yes

5. She/he is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty or ideal love.

Yes

6. She/he has a sense of entitlement (i.e., an unreasonable expectation of favorable treatment)

Yes

7. She/he requires constant attention and admiration to bolster self-esteem.

Yes

8. She/he lacks empathy (i.e., inability to recognize and experience how others feel).

Personality Quizzes

I Simply Adore the Image in the Mirror

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