ANALYSIS OF NARCISSISM AS A PSYCHOLOGICAL PHENOMENON
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31149/ijnps.v4i4.2820Keywords:
Narcissism, Personality Psychology, Self-Esteem, Personality Development, PsychoanalysisAbstract
This article provides a detailed analysis of narcissism as a complex psychological construct. It analyses the position of narcissism within psychological theory, investigates the primary factors that contribute to its development and evaluates its profound influence on personality formation and progression. Narcissism is presented as a complex psychological state involving an individual’s relationship with themselves, their self-evaluative processes, and the dynamics of their social interactions. Particular attention is given to the important distinction between healthy and pathological forms of narcissism. Healthy narcissism is generally associated with adaptive psychological functioning. It fosters positive self-regard, realistic self-confidence, and healthy ambition, thereby promoting personal growth and psychological resilience. In contrast, pathological narcissism is characterised by maladaptive patterns including grandiosity, an excessive need for admiration, a lack of empathy, exploitative interpersonal behaviour and chronic difficulties in maintaining stable, mutually satisfying relationships. The analysis considers narcissism not just as an isolated personality trait, but as a deeper psychodynamic process that significantly influences the development of the whole personality. Drawing upon contemporary psychological research, the article addresses the aetiology of narcissism, its clinical manifestations and potential therapeutic approaches. It provides a more nuanced understanding of how narcissistic tendencies can range from adaptive self-enhancement to severely dysfunctional personality organisation.
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