Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): A clog in the wheel of a compassionate society
Rivalry and a lack of compassion in our society are often the result of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). A classic example of this can be found in the Bible, where King Herod murdered all boys two years and under in his kingdom while attempting to kill Jesus Christ. He had requested the wise men to find the exact location of the new king and inform him so that he could worship him as well, intending to kill him. After his deception was revealed to the wise men by God, he became enraged when they failed to return and used the state’s agencies to murder children so that he would remain the sole ruler.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a behavior and a mental health condition characterized by an unreasonably high sense of self-importance. Studies have shown that individuals with NPD typically require and seek excessive attention and desire to be admired solely by others. Furthermore, research indicates that such individuals may lack the ability to comprehend or empathize with the feelings of others, which is counterproductive to the promotion of a compassionate society.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) involves a pattern of self-centered, arrogant thinking and behavior, particularly with regard to a lack of empathy. It also entails a disregard for the feelings of others and an excessive need for admiration. Instead of caring for others, showing compassion, and creating positive community impact, individuals with NPD prioritize seeking attention and admiration. Studies have demonstrated that individuals with NPD are prevalent in various aspects of human endeavors, posing a threat to the progress of a progressive society because they are inherently self-centered and arrogant, always preoccupied with themselves and seeking admiration.
When an individual with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) experiences intense jealousy and perceives you as a threat, they may initiate a smear campaign to damage your reputation. Research conducted by neurological brain behavior experts suggests that the primary objective of such a campaign is to isolate and disparage their opponent, regardless of their familial or professional relationships. This strategy aims to prevent the opponent from raising concerns, thereby undermining their credibility.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapists caution that individuals who accept the smear campaign without considering the opponent’s perspective have never been on their side. Such individuals often harbor negative feelings towards the person involved.
The primary motivation behind the smear campaign is the narcissist’s fear of exposure. Narcissists are aware of their wrongdoing and seek to conceal it. Individuals with NPD recognize their malicious, abusive, and manipulative tactics and resort to smearing others to regain control.
When a narcissist perceives a loss of control, they redirect their efforts towards manipulating the narratives surrounding their opponent’s reputation.
Does the person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) experience any negative effects?
In essence, every action has a corresponding consequence, which may leave the individual with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) in a state of regret and depression. This behavior causes worry, stress, and a lack of peace of mind for the person with such a disorder. They are never fully satisfied and consistently lose competent men and women around them. If left untreated and addressed through therapy, the person with NPD can increase the likelihood of developing other mental illnesses and disorders.
We are all called to love one another and to be our brothers’ keepers. Let us increase the love, concern, and empathy for one another and for a compassionate society.
For further information about how individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) affect those around them, please refer to the following: https://www.copeandlive.foundation/blog/narcissistic-mother
The writer, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, is a U.S. IVLP Alumni. He is also a certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Coach, an Olympic Committee sports manager and administrator, and lead consultant at the Cope and Live Mental Health Awareness Foundation.
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