Narcissism: Can it be helped?

Are people sometimes born with an overinflated ego? Does it come with life experiences? The following analogy should help you understand narcissism a bit better..

‘’I know now that the gas is now exhausted in the cylinder, y’all are going to abandon it and wait for me to come fill it again.’’ Fola blared out from the reclining chair he was on.

‘’I filled the gas, I bought the foodstuffs, I changed the burnt bulbs, I changed the lock on the door. If it wasn’t for me, all of these things wouldn’t be done. And it’s a fact.

‘’You’re just saying rubbish; what do you mean by all you’ve said? When did you become our lord and savior in this house? His immediate elder sister, Tola, retorted angrily.

‘’Well, y’all get pained when I say the truth, and that truth is that without me, nothing seems to get done. I repeat again that it’s a fact.

Tola opened her mouth as if to speak, and then closed it again almost immediately, without uttering any word. There was silence in the room, which was however punctured by the soft voice of their youngest brother Solomon, who said ‘’I smell narcissism.’’

Silence again.

What is narcissism?

Narcissism, or one who does this, a narcissist, describes someone who acts self-absorbed, vain, superior and selfish. It is a personality disorder, and actually a serious condition.

It is quite common, as it affects about 5% of the population.

The exact cause of narcissism is not known but may result from a combination of factors that include: Childhood trauma (such as physical, sexual and verbal abuse), family history and temperament.

What are narcissistic traits and how can it be diagnosed?

Narcissistic personality disorder is usually diagnosed when 5 or more traits below are identified:

An overinflated sense of self-importance.
Having constant thoughts about being more successful, powerful, smart, loved or attractive than others.
Showing feelings of superiority and the desire to only associate with people of high standards.
Having a need for excessive admiration.
Having a sense of entitlement.
Willingness to take advantage of others to achieve goals.
Lack of understanding and consideration for other people’s feelings and needs.
Arrogant or snobby behaviors and attitudes.