Mirror, Mirror: The Narcissism Epidemic in Modern Society
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|
In an age where social media reigns supreme and the “selfie” is a staple of digital interaction, the term “narcissism” has found its way into everyday vernacular. However, beyond its casual use to describe someone’s weekend photo spree, lies a complex psychological condition that affects both the individual and those within their orbit. Narcissism, characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, coupled with a lack of empathy for others, can have profound implications on personal relationships and societal dynamics.
What is narcissism? According to Mayo Clinic[1] , “narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition in which people have an unreasonably high sense of their own importance. They need and seek too much attention and want people to admire them. People with this disorder may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence, they are not sure of their self-worth and are easily upset by the slightest criticism.”
In conclusion, narcissism is a trait marked by excessive self-focus, a heightened sense of entitlement, and a persistent need for attention and admiration. WebMD[2] , considers that narcissism is linked to your:
- Environment: Your parents may have given you either too much adoration or too much criticism that didn’t match your actual experiences and achievements.
- Genetics: Narcissism may be linked to your inherited characteristics, including certain personality traits.
- Neurobiology: This is the connection between your brain, behavior, and thinking.
How can we identify a narcissist[3] ?
- Narcissists have to be the best, the most right, and the most competent; do everything their way; own everything; and control everyone.
- Narcissists need everything to be perfect. They believe they should be perfect; you should be perfect, events should happen exactly as expected, and life should play out precisely as they envision it.
- Narcissists need attention, even just by following you around the house, asking you to find things, or constantly saying something to grab your attention. And validation for a narcissist counts only if it comes from others.
- Narcissists make the most of their decisions based on how they feel about something. They always look for something or someone outside themselves to solve their feelings and needs.
- Narcissists don’t have the capacity or the motivation to communicate or work as a part of the team.
Narcissism is a mental health condition. “It affects a person’s sense of self-esteem, identity, and how they treat themselves and others. It is more than arrogance or selfishness. In the worst cases, people with NPD may struggle with feelings of failure or rejection, putting their own health and wellbeing at risk[4] .”
Additionally, “the life of the typical narcissist is, indeed, punctuated with recurrent bouts of dysphoria (ubiquitous sadness and hopelessness), anhedonia (loss of the ability to feel pleasure), and clinical forms of depression (cyclothymic, dysthymic, or other). This picture is further obfuscated by the frequent presence of mood disorders, such as Bipolar I (co-morbidity[5] ).”
What is the treatment? According to Mayo Clinic, “treatment for narcissistic personality disorder is talk therapy, also called psychotherapy. Medicines may be included in your treatment if you have other mental health conditions, such as depression. Psychotherapy can help you to learn to relate better with others, so your relationships are closer, more enjoyable and more rewarding. You have to learn to understand and learn how to handle issues related to your self-esteem. You have to learn to set and accept goals that can reach instead of wanting goals that are not realistic[6] .”
In closing, while narcissism may be easily dismissed as mere vanity or self-absorption, it is evident that the implications of this trait are far-reaching, influencing interpersonal relationships, workplace dynamics, and societal values at large. As we continue to cultivate our digital personas and navigate the complex social landscapes of the modern world, it Is imperative that we remain conscious of the thin line between healthy self-esteem and detrimental narcissistic behavior.
[1]https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20366662
[2]https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/narcissism-symptoms-signs
[3]https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/14-signs-of-narcissism
[4]https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9742-narcissistic-personality-disorder
[5]https://www.healthyplace.com/personality-disorders/malignant-self-love/narcissism-with-other-mental-health-disorders-co-morbidity-and-dual-diagnosis