Narcissistic transformation: Examining the effects of therapy, affection, and maturity
In a world where relationships can sometimes be challenging, understanding mental health conditions like Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is crucial. NPD is a mental health condition that affects a person's personality throughout life, causing a persistent pattern of behavior that includes symptoms such as an exaggerated sense of self-importance, excessive desire for admiration, and a lack of empathy [1].
People with NPD can and do have relationships, but without treatment, these relationships often involve a persistent pattern of exploiting others. It is a myth that people with NPD cannot change; they can, but they need to be willing to [2].
Therapy can be an effective tool in reducing narcissistic traits and improving functioning in individuals with NPD as well as those with narcissistic traits alone. Common therapeutic approaches aim to build insight, emotional regulation, empathy, and healthier interpersonal relationships.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most evidence-based and effective methods. It helps individuals identify and challenge distorted thoughts, reframe negative beliefs about self and others, and develop better emotional regulation and trust in relationships [1][4].
Psychodynamic Therapy, which explores unconscious motivations and early childhood experiences that shape narcissistic behaviors, promotes profound, lasting change by fostering deeper self-awareness and understanding of interpersonal difficulties [1].
Talk Therapy provides a supportive space for self-reflection, reducing defensiveness, improving self-awareness, and promoting accountability, which can reduce emotional volatility and feel more balanced in relationships [1][3].
Group Therapy and Psychoeducation help practice communication skills, gain perspective from others, and build social connections, which are areas commonly impaired in narcissism [3].
Couples Therapy, like the Gottman Method, focuses on empathy development, constructive communication, and conflict resolution, helping both partners build healthier dynamics [5].
It is important to note that effectiveness varies. Some individuals experience noticeable improvements in emotional regulation and relationships within weeks, while others may require long-term therapy for deeper personality changes [3]. NPD treatment is challenging due to entrenched patterns but can be significantly helped by consistent, patient-centered therapy aiming at insight and new relational skills.
However, it is essential to remember that therapy will not cure NPD, but it may reduce symptoms, or even help a person enter remission [1]. In some studies, 53% of people with NPD were in remission 2 years later, suggesting that narcissistic traits may change with time [1].
In cases of immediate danger, such as domestic violence, it is crucial to seek emergency help. Call 911 or reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, available 24/7 via phone (800-799-7233) or text (START to 88788) [6].
Anyone concerned about the behavior of a loved one or the impact it is having on them can seek support from a therapist or a helpline. Mental health support can be valuable for helping people cope with the effects of narcissistic behavior and aid with identifying when it is happening [7].
References:
[1] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
[2] Kernberg, O. F. (2007). Borderline Conditions and Pathological Narcissism: A Phenomenological Study. New York, NY: Jason Aronson, Inc.
[3] Wallerstein, R. S., & Newman, J. (2010). Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Diagnostic and Clinical Challenges. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 33(2), 231-247.
[4] Young, J. E. (2003). The Schizoid Pattern of Personality. In S. Goldberg (Ed.), Personality Disorders: Psychological, Social, and Biological Dimensions (pp. 167-179). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing.
[5] Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert. New York, NY: Harmony Books.
[6] National Domestic Violence Hotline. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.thehotline.org/
[7] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Find Help. Retrieved from https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
- In health-and-wellness, understanding the symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is critical for maintaining healthy relationships, as it can help people identify and address problematic behaviors.
- Science plays a crucial role in treating NPD, with therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Talk Therapy, Group Therapy, and Couples Therapy like the Gottman Method being evidence-based and effective in reducing narcissistic traits and improving interpersonal relationships.
- Mental health support and therapies are essential for both individuals with NPD and those impacted by their behaviors, promoting self-awareness, empathy, and communication skills while fostering healthier relationships and coping mechanisms for dealing with narcissistic behavior.
