Characteristics Typical of Narcissists

Characteristics Shared by Narcissists

In the realm of psychology, a fascinating topic that continues to captivate interest is that of narcissism. For those curious to delve deeper into this complex subject, there's an opportunity to subscribe to a monthly newsletter, available for free, focusing on the psychology of abuse.

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Narcissists, as described by psychoanalyst Otto Kernberg, may appear warm and sociable on the surface, but their actions belie a lack of empathy for others. They possess shallow emotions and are unable to tolerate feelings of true sadness or guilt, or the strong emotions of others. This detachment often results in a chronic sense of boredom, which they seek to alleviate through "narcissistic supply" – adulation and attention from others, including negative emotional energy.

Narcissists also have a high degree of self-importance and a need for praise from others, which can be confusing. They frequently feel envy of others and have a strong sense of entitlement. Interestingly, they idolize those who provide good narcissistic supply and depreciate those who cannot.

Master manipulators, narcissists often lie and use smoke and mirrors presentations to deceive others. They may also gain additional narcissistic supply from delusional or fantasy thinking, such as self-aggrandizement fantasies or idealizing a new partner.

The information in the newsletter is likely to focus on these topics and more, providing insights into the dynamics of narcissism and its impact on relationships, society, and mental health. While the newsletter is not a source of therapy or counseling, it serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand this intriguing personality type better.