Introduction
The term ‘Narcissism’ is often used to describe self-obsessed and self-centered people, who are full of themselves. People with narcissistic personality disorder have an extreme need for attention and admiration, an unreasonable sense of self-importance, problematic relationships, and an inability to share others’ feelings. But such people have very fragile self-esteem.
What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Narcissistic personality disorder, otherwise called NPD, is a type of personality disorder. A narcissistic personality disorder affects an individual’s work, relationships, school, and more. When such people are not given special care, attention, and favors, they easily become unhappy and disappointed. Due to their constant need for appreciation and approval, others do not enjoy being in a relationship with them and they find all relationships unfulfilling.
People with NPD have self-centered and arrogant thinking and behavior, which often makes others describe them as manipulative, demanding, selfish, and patronizing. These patients do not change their behavior even when they notice it is the root of all their problems. They always turn the blame on others and react extremely sensitively to the minutest criticisms or disagreements. They view such criticisms as a personal attack.
As people with NPD do not consider themselves mentally ill, treatments have not been well studied. NPD is more common in men than women and affects about one percent of people at some point in life. This condition was first described in 1925 by the psychoanalyst Robert Waelder, and in 1968, Heinz Kohut coined the term narcissistic personality disorder.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
The traits or signs and symptoms of a narcissistic personality disorder are:
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An exaggerated sense of self-importance.
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Require constant and excessive admiration than they deserve.
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They tend to exaggerate their achievements and talents.
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Fantasize about the perfect partner, success, money, power, and beauty.
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A constant need to be considered superior even without any achievements.
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Consider themselves superior and associate only with equally superior people.
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Crave special favors and attention from everyone.
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Step on and use others to get what they want.
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Look down on people whom they consider to be inferior.
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An inability to understand and recognize others’ feelings and needs.
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Always feel that others envy them.
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Always want the best in everything.
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Become extremely angry or impatient when they are not given special treatment.
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To make themselves appear superior, they constantly try to belittle others.
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Unnecessarily behave arrogantly.
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They cannot regulate their emotions and behavior.
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They have problems while dealing with stress.
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They cannot adapt to change.
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When they feel they are not perfect, they get depressed and moody.
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They are secretly insecure and vulnerable.
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They are extremely jealous.
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Consider themselves skilled in romance.
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Problems maintaining a healthy relationship.
What Causes Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
The exact cause that triggers narcissistic personality disorder is still not known. But like all other mental health disorders, narcissistic personality disorder is also believed to be caused due to multiple factors. The possible factors include:
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Environment - Excessive adoration or criticism by parents during childhood.
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Neurobiology - Problems with the brain and behavior connection.
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Genetics.
Risk Factors:
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Males are more susceptible than females.
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Teenagers and young adults are more prone than older adults.
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Excessive pampering.
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Neglectful or overprotective parenting.
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Childhood abuse.
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Engaging in frequent sexual activity with different partners.
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Parents expect unrealistic things from their children.
Is Narcissism genetic?
Research into the heritability of personality traits has explored the question of whether the narcissism is genetic. Several studies from different parts of the world have provided insights into the genetic component of narcissistic traits. In fact, according to some of these studies, the risk of inheriting narcissism is suggested to be over 50 percent in certain cases.
To investigate the genetic basis of narcissism, researchers commonly employ twin studies. By comparing identical and fraternal twins raised in the same environment, researchers can assess the influence of genetics on traits like narcissism. If a trait is consistently observed in identical twins more than in fraternal twins, especially when the environment is controlled, it supports the hypothesis that the trait has a genetic basis.
Extensive research on the question of whether narcissism is genetic has revealed findings suggesting a genetic component in the development of narcissistic traits. However, it should be acknowledged that environmental factors also significantly contribute to shaping an individual's personality.
How Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder Diagnosed?
There is no specific lab test that can diagnose this personality disorder. However, the doctor might suggest X-rays and blood tests to rule out other conditions that can result in similar signs and symptoms.
For NPD diagnosis, the patient must show the following criteria written in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which was published by the APA (American Psychiatric Association):
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Exaggerated importance and the idea of self.
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The patient’s thoughts are dominated by fantasies about money, power, beauty, and success.
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The patient believes that they are special, and relates only to other people that they consider special.
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A constant need to be admired.
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They feel that they are entitled to most things.
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Try to manipulate and use others for self-gain.
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Inability to feel and recognize others’ feelings or lack of empathy.
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Envious of others.
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They behave arrogantly.
What Are the Treatment Options for Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
The treatment options include:
Psychotherapy - Otherwise called talk therapy. Psychotherapy is the most commonly used treatment option for narcissistic personality disorder. This therapy often lasts for a short time and helps one manage things during a crisis. Some common therapeutic approaches for NPD:
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Psychodynamic therapy.
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Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
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Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
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Group therapy.
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Family therapy
Most patients with NPD feel that therapy is not worth their time and often end up quitting. But the important thing to remember is that sticking to the treatment plan is the key. Make sure to attend all the sessions and take all prescribed medicines without skipping them.
Medications - There is no specific group of medicines that are used to treat narcissistic personality disorder. But the doctor will prescribe medicines, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs if the person shows symptoms of depression or anxiety.
What Are the Possible Complications of Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Some of the possible complications and other conditions that can occur with narcissistic personality disorder are:
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Relationship problems.
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Depression.
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Anxiety.
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Drug abuse.
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Suicidal thoughts.
Can Narcissistic Personality Disorder Be Prevented?
Preventing NPD is challenging due to genetic and environmental factors. Early intervention, positive parenting, and promoting empathy can help reduce its impact, but complete prevention is not guaranteed. Professional help is very important for diagnosis and treatment if signs emerge.
Conclusion
Currently, there is no specific number or percentage that clearly defines the role of genetics in diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder. Ongoing research, including the exploration of specific genes linked to narcissism, is essential for gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic factors contributing to NPD. Therefore, the question, is narcissism genetic, continues to be a subject of active investigation. To gain additional insights into strategies for managing narcissistic personality disorder, consider seeking advice from a psychiatrist through online consultations. This approach allows individuals to access professional guidance and explore effective interventions for addressing and coping with narcissistic personality disorder.
