LaFern Cusack

The Dark Triangle - Malignant Narcissists Pt3

Dr. Phil discusses the "triangle", philosophy and characteristics of malignant narcissists, individuals who believe that the world is out to get them and that they must get others first. Malignant narcissists prioritize their personal pleasure over the safety and well-being of others, have a lack of empathy and conscience, are highly manipulative, exploitative, and vengeful, and they constantly seek power and dominance over others.

Dr. Phil also explains the traits and behaviors of psychopaths, who often display similar characteristics to malignant narcissists. Learn why it’s important to recognize and avoid these individuals.

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Overview: Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Source: Mayo Clinic

Symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder and how severe they are can vary. People with the disorder can:

Have an unreasonably high sense of self-importance and require constant, excessive admiration.
Feel that they deserve privileges and special treatment.
Expect to be recognized as superior even without achievements.
Make achievements and talents seem bigger than they are.
Be preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate.
Believe they are superior to others and can only spend time with or be understood by equally special people.
Be critical of and look down on people they feel are not important.
Expect special favors and expect other people to do what they want without questioning them.
Take advantage of others to get what they want.
Have an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others.
Be envious of others and believe others envy them.
Behave in an arrogant way, brag a lot and come across as conceited.
Insist on having the best of everything — for instance, the best car or office.

At the same time, people with narcissistic personality disorder have trouble handling anything they view as criticism. They can:

Become impatient or angry when they don't receive special recognition or treatment.
Have major problems interacting with others and easily feel slighted.
React with rage or contempt and try to belittle other people to make themselves appear superior.
Have difficulty managing their emotions and behavior.
Experience major problems dealing with stress and adapting to change.
Withdraw from or avoid situations in which they might fail.
Feel depressed and moody because they fall short of perfection.
Have secret feelings of insecurity, shame, humiliation and fear of being exposed as a failure.

When to see a doctor

People with narcissistic personality disorder may not want to think that anything could be wrong, so they usually don't seek treatment. If they do seek treatment, it's more likely to be for symptoms of depression, drug or alcohol misuse, or another mental health problem. What they view as insults to self-esteem may make it difficult to accept and follow through with treatment.

If you recognize aspects of your personality that are common to narcissistic personality disorder or you're feeling overwhelmed by sadness, consider reaching out to a trusted health care provider or mental health provider. Getting the right treatment can help make your life more rewarding and enjoyable.

Source: Mayo Clinic April 6, 2023 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20366662

"Labeling" A Narcissist

Malignant Narcissists

"Get Them Before They Get Me" Approach

The Dark Triangle - Malignant Narcissists

Self-care and coping strategies:

Learn about the condition. Knowledge and understanding can help empower and motivate
Get active
Avoid drugs and alcohol
Get routine medical care
Join a support group
Write in a journal to express your emotions
Try relaxation and stress management techniques
Stay connected with family and friends
Having a family member with a personality disorder can also be distressing and stressful.
Family members may benefit from talking with a mental health provider who can provide help coping with difficulties.