“It is not love that should be depicted as blind, but self-love.”
~ Voltaire
You Don't Have to be a Serial Killer to be a Narcissist
If you're feeling a bit crazy these days, look for the narcissist in your life. They, like Borderline Personality sufferers, feed on bringing you down. Narcissism is becoming more common and is fed by technology, media, and messages of self-entitlement. It's easy to become caught in the web of a narcissist. For the most part, narcissism is thought to be a disorder that only affects males. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Women can also display narcissistic tendencies, even though some characteristics can look different. Some notable narcissistic women in film are Michelle Pfieffer in White Oleander and Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada. Let’s take a look at these differences:
Some Narcissistic Traits
Appearance. In general, narcissists believe they are extremely attractive and groom themselves to attract attention. Males will typically use their charm, in combination with their attractiveness, in order to reach a goal. Females, on the other hand, can become obsessed solely with their appearance.
Seduction. While both men and women are highly talented in the art of seduction, how they use it is different. Men will use their charm while women use their bodies in order to seduce others and get what they want.
Self-Assuredness. Narcissists believe they look and behave better than anyone else. Males demonstrate self-confidence they gain from within. Women, on the other hand, often compare themselves to others and gain superiority that way. Others are almost always ‘beneath them.’
Money. Money is a huge motivator for narcissists as it gives them a sense of control, status, and power over others. Male narcissists will do anything it takes to obtain as much money as possible, even if it means stealing from people close to them. Women enjoy spending money in excessive amounts. Both men and women show little remorse or shame for their behaviour.
Romantic Commitment. Even if they are in a romantic relationship a narcissist will seek additional attention if they feel they are not getting it from their partner. Men are typically serial adulterers where women enjoy using the power of seduction to control the opposite sex.
Children. Narcissists will often choose a favourite child and spend their time giving all of their attention to that child. This has dire consequences on any other offspring and leaves them feeling unloved and inadequate. Even with children, men feel their spouse should focus all of their attention on themselves rather than on the children. Women, however, view children as an extension of themselves and that a child’s accomplishments are a reflection of their amazing parenting abilities.
Competition. Narcissists thrive in competition as it gives them the ability to show others how superior they are. Men tend to see other men as rivals whereas women are battling for dominance.
For a more complete list of the sign and symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, check out the Medscape website.
Hypnotherapy and Success Coaching Can Help You Stay Sane
If believe that you or a loved one are showing signs of narcissism, addressing the issue is of utmost importance for you and your family. Consider hypnotherapy as a treatment option. Hypnotherapy can assist you in getting to the root of issues that cause narcissism and help you break the cycle of engagement and emotional bondage to a narcissist.
Call me today for a FREE, no obligation consultation and let's chat about your situation. Click on the link below.
