Narcissists are individuals who exhibit grandiosity and entitlement, often convinced of their own specialness. They typically lack empathy and constantly seek attention.
In severe cases, a person may receive a diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder. Despite their outward confidence, narcissism is believed to stem from deep-rooted insecurities referred to as “fragile narcissism.”
Research supports this notion. For instance, a brain scan study revealed that when narcissists viewed images of themselves, neural activity indicated negative emotions.
Another study found that narcissists display reduced connectivity between various brain regions related to self and reward. Neural regions related to self and reward.
For some narcissists, the need to attract attention and show off serves as a coping mechanism for personal self-doubt. However, this strategy can backfire if the narcissist faces rejection or public humiliation.
While the term “disintegrated narcissist” is not included in psychiatric diagnostic manuals, therapists and psychologists use it to describe a narcissist who experiences a breakdown, leading to feelings of deflation and anger.
Studies have shown that vulnerable narcissists react to imagined insults or rejection with feelings of sadness and self-hatred. Additionally, disintegrated narcissists often respond to provocation with shame, anger, and rage.
Attempting to bring a narcissist down a notch may escalate conflicts and worsen underlying insecurities. A better approach may involve helping the narcissistic individual build healthier self-esteem and cultivate empathy towards others.
This article is in response to a question posed by Jules Morrison via email: “What is a disintegrated narcissist?”
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
