Psychology of Narcissism and How Volunteering Can Control Narcissistic Traits

Last Updated: May 29, 2023

Tweet

Narcissism is the love that a person has for oneself. This self-love is essential for the development of all individuals since it precedes love for others. Initially, a child is only aware of oneself and can only "love" oneself. Gradually, the child becomes aware of others, focusing their love on their parents and then on other people.

So, what do we mean when we talk about a narcissistic person? And what should you look for to know if anyone from your friend or family is one?

What is Narcissism?

Narcissism is a personality characteristic in which someone has excessive self-love, self centeredness and a filled sense of someone's own importance and value above all.

Characteristics of Narcissism

Here we have enlisted some of the characteristics of the people with.

They believe they are the most important person in the world

Narcissists often love themselves above all else and believe that their problems, experiences, or opinions are more important than those of others. Therefore, you may notice that they don't take you into account, don't listen to you, or belittle what you do.

They feel special

They believe they don't fit into the "earthly world," that other people are beneath them and their capabilities, and that they deserve and should surround themselves with famous, attractive, high-status, highly intelligent, etc., individuals. That's why they often belittle their partner's abilities, ridiculing them in private and public, making them feel inferior, useless, or invalid.

They believe they are the most beautiful person and deserve special love

As a result, their partner always has to admire them, constantly telling them how special and attractive they are, etc. They may even get upset if their partner doesn't say it. This can be exhausting for the partner.

They have very high fantasies and expectations of success and power

Narcissists always believe they have the right to reach the highest self pleasure and self approval. They are easily influenced with toxic positivity and start running in the race of supreme self accomplishments.

Clues to Find  if You are with a Narcissist

Contrary to popular belief, narcissism is not inherently negative. We all have our narcissism, and it is a fundamental piece for achieving our goals and objectives, gaining respect, having good self-esteem, and a healthy self-love. The problem is not narcissism itself but the quantity, defect, or excess of it.

Etiology of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

There has been limited research on the biological factors contributing to narcissistic personality disorder, although it appears to have a significant hereditary component. Some theories suggest that caregivers may not have treated the child properly, for example, by being overly critical or excessively praising, admiring, or dedicating themselves to the child.

Some people with this disorder have special gifts or talents and become accustomed to associating their self-image and sense of self-worth with the admiration and esteem of others.

Signs and Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

People with narcissistic personality disorder overestimate their abilities and exaggerate their achievements. They believe they are superior, unique, or special. The overestimation of their own value and achievements often involves underestimating the value and achievements of others.

These people are preoccupied with fantasies of great achievements—being admired for their intelligence or overwhelming beauty, having prestige and influence, or experiencing great love. They feel they should only associate with others as special and talented as themselves, not with ordinary people. This association with extraordinary individuals is used to support and enhance their self-esteem.

How Volunteering Helps Control Narcissism?

Engaging yourself in volunteer work and joining humanitarian works to help others can help control narcissistic behaviors.

Volunteering is all about empathy. While you are in service for others you think less about yourself and more about the well being of other people. Getting involved in a voluntary or humanitarian work will set you free from focusing on yourself.