Narcissism Has a Spectrum?
In recent years, “somewhere in the middle” has become more acceptable when discussing mental health issues and diagnoses. Someone might show some signs or symptoms of a particular disorder but not fully exhibit the full scale. This is common when diagnosing autism but is also used for conditions such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and even narcissism.
You or someone you know might have a full-blown narcissistic personality disorder. But even if it is not to such a pronounced degree, they may have some signs that would place them on the narcissism spectrum.
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First, What Is Narcissism?
Narcissism is the excessive involvement and admiration of oneself—having a high sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy for others, and an exaggerated sense of their accomplishments, abilities, and even physical appearance. It might come across as being vain or self-absorbed. This may lead to manipulation. With little empathy and heightened self, this means exploitation of others may be par for the course.
Both men and women can develop narcissistic behaviors. However, depending on the gender roles in a particular society, the behaviors may align with certain cultural norms.
It’s possible that people aligning with feminine traits may feel pressure to become attractive and gain attention. Those identifying with masculine traits will also exhibit more classic dominant and grand characteristics.
The common thread, however, is self-importance. And the lack of empathy. Neglecting and dismissing others, even those closest to them.
Traits of Narcissism
Duke Health identifies the 9 traits of narcissism as an acrostic of the words “Special me.”
- Sense of self-importance
- Preoccupation with power, beauty, or success
- Entitled
- Can only be around people who are important or special
- Interpersonally exploitative for their own gain
- Arrogant
- Lack empathy
- Must be admired
- Envious of others or believe that others are envious of them
What Is the Narcissistic Spectrum?
As it would appear, the narcissistic spectrum represents a wide range of traits or behaviors that someone may exhibit. On one end, you may have a friend who is sometimes self-centered or ignores the feelings of others (or is unaware). On the other side, you may feel like your friend has what could be described as a need to be liked or admired.
Or you may know someone you would describe as preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited power and beauty. They exploit or manipulate others to achieve their goals. And they likely have a difficult time in relationships as a result.
What Are the Signs of Narcissism?
Watching how others speak to you, how they would like you to respond or hold them in regard, or how they react to certain situations in life? Do they need to be respected? Do they value or even understand your feelings and emotions? Your validity as a person with ideas and thoughts? Are they malicious to others and refuse to carry the blame or take criticism? Do they lack shame or remorse? These behaviors are key in noticing that they may be on the narcissistic spectrum.
You might find someone with fragile self-esteem on the darker side of this disorder. They may feel the need to constantly prove their dominance, even at risk of personal safety or the safety of those around them. They may lash out in defense or even be hostile if criticized.
Narcissistic Spectrum Treatment Options
It can be a bit tricky to help someone on the narcissist spectrum to get treatment. Encouragement to get help may be perceived as an attack. Much of their sessions could be dismissed as therapy typically includes listening to someone else. The whole idea might be written off as beneath them.
Treatment can help people develop insight into their behavior and provide strategies for managing their symptoms. But therapy can help a person on the narcissistic spectrum. Here are a few effective approaches.
Narrative Therapy
In a nutshell, narrative therapy for mental health encourages a separation of the problem from the individual to cast more light on the issue itself. This is great for analysis and giving people a fuller view of themselves and the perspective of others when interacting with them.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT evaluates thinking patterns and seeks to break them to establish healthier ones. For a narcissist, this may include what draws them to specific reoccurring thoughts and actions in triggering situations that may spur them on, especially when it comes to the symptom of exploitation.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT in Orange County homes in on emotions, which is effective at getting the patients’ attention, as it is likely that their inner feelings go unaddressed. This may involve practicing mindfulness and emotion regulation.
Group Therapy
Group therapy involves multiple-patient treatment under the belief that extra support helps clients relate to one another in their struggles and gives them a strong support system throughout treatment.
Help for the Narcissist
Ultimately, narcissism disorder and anyone on the spectrum have the potential to cause harm to themselves and those they love. Whether you or someone you know, is struggling with the things mentioned here, it would make sense to get the thoughts of a professional. There is help for people on the spectrum of narcissism. Call Story Wellness today for a free consultation with our mental health specialists.
To talk more about narcissism, or talk about which treatment in Southern California is best, call Story Wellness at (866) 476-2823.
