Manipulative egoist: Characteristics, origins, and strategies to counteract
Covert narcissism, also known as "vulnerable narcissism," is a less obvious subtype of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Unlike overt narcissists who display grandiosity openly, covert narcissists mask their self-importance with a facade of vulnerability and inadequacy.
People with covert narcissism often struggle with low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy, yet they fantasize about superiority. Their behaviour can be characterized by passive-aggressive tactics, playing the victim or martyr, and a lack of genuine empathy. They may also seek validation and attention indirectly, avoid situations that challenge their sense of superiority, and become defensive when criticized.
The exact causes of covert narcissism are not yet fully understood, but it is believed to stem from low self-esteem and deep insecurities. Environmental factors such as childhood neglect, emotional abuse, or dysfunctional family dynamics may contribute to its development. However, research into the causes of narcissistic personality traits and NPD is ongoing.
Regularly interacting with someone with covert narcissism can affect a person's mental health. If you find that mental health symptoms are interfering with your work or personal life, speaking with a doctor or psychotherapist is a good first step.
In some cases, abusive relationships involving narcissistic traits may require help to leave. Domestic violence resources, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline, are available 24/7 for those in need.
It's important to note that self-esteem is not synonymous with self-importance. A person with good self-esteem feels valuable in themselves and does not feel the need to assert their superiority over others.
In summary, covert narcissism is marked by hidden grandiosity masked by vulnerability, passive aggression, and a craving for validation rooted in fragile self-esteem. It differs from overt narcissism mainly in its subtlety and internalized struggles with worthiness. If you are dealing with someone exhibiting these traits, setting boundaries and seeking professional help can be beneficial.
- Ongoing research in the field of science is attempting to better understand the complexities of psoriatic disease, which shares some characteristics with covert narcissism, such as symptoms of low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy.
- Obesity, a common health-and-wellness concern, can lead to diseases like non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and hepatitis, especially when combined with poor diet choices and a sedentary lifestyle.
- With the rise of mental-health awareness, predictive therapies and treatments for diseases like depression, bipolar disease, and migraine are being developed to provide a more targeted approach to treatment and improve quality of life.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS), a neurological disease, often results in symptoms like fatigue, numbness, and vision problems, requiring ongoing management through a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and therapies.
- A person with ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that falls under the health-and-wellness umbrella, may feel inadequate due to the constant need for treatment and the unpredictable nature of the condition, leading to depression and anxiety.
- HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, can result in a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to other diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis, and certain types of cancer.
- Arthritis, a degenerative condition affecting the joints, can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and a decrease in overall health and well-being, potentially resulting in mental health challenges like depression or anxiety.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, science has been focusing on developing effective treatments for Crohn's disease, another type of IBD, to help improve patients' quality of life and predict disease progression.
- The development of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, sclerosis, and colitis, can stem from environmental factors like exposure to toxins or infections and genetic predispositions, although the exact causes remain a topic of ongoing research.
- In some instances, a person with HIV may turn to substance abuse or other self-destructive behaviors to cope with their diagnosis and feelings of inadequacy, leading to further complications in their health and mental wellness.
- addressing covert narcissism in personal relationships is crucial for maintaining emotional and mental health, as it often leads to codependency, unhealthy communication patterns, and a strained sense of self-worth. Seeking out resources for health-and-wellness and mental-health support can empower individuals to build a more positive and fulfilling life.
