Understanding the Narcissistic Process: Origins & Traits

The narcissistic process usually starts in a person's childhood. For a person who is narcissistic, they may have what is know as narcissistic personality disorder.

Definition

• Narcissistic personality disorder can be defined as a condition in which a person suffers from a high level of a sense of self-importance and need for admiration.

Commonality

• Narcissistic personality disorder is not that common. Less than 1 percent of the population has this condition, and it is more common in males and psychiatric patients.

Causes

• There is no known causes of the disorder because it is so complex, but NPD can be connected to a dysfunctional upbringing, abuse and neglect.

Symptoms

• Some symptoms of NPD are believing you are special or better than other people, a abnormally high desire for power or attractiveness and taking advantage of other people.

Treatment

• There are no specific medications used to treat NPD. Treatment of NPD is centered around different types of therapy such as group therapy, family therapy and cognitive therapy.