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Narcissistic Personality Disorder 

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SNOMED Terms

 

  • Adjustment disorder with disturbance of conduct

  • Antisocial personality disorder

  • Intermittent explosive disorder

  • Narcissistic personality disorder


Goals

 

  • Accept responsibility for own behavior and keep behavior within the acceptable limits of the rules of society.

  • Develop and demonstrate a healthy sense of respect for social norms, the rights of others, and the need for honesty.

  • Improve method of relating to the world, especially authority figures; be more realistic, less defiant, and more socially sensitive.

  • Come to an understanding and acceptance of the need for conforming to prevailing social limits and boundaries on behavior.

  • Maintain consistent employment and demonstrate financial and emotional responsibility for children.


Behavioral Definitions

 

  • An adolescent history of consistent rule-breaking, lying, stealing, physical aggression, disrespect for others and their property, and/or substance abuse resulting in frequent confrontation with authority.

  • Failure to conform with social norms with respect to the law, as shown by repeatedly performed antisocial acts (e.g., destroying property, stealing, pursuing an illegal job) for which he/she may or may not have been arrested.

  • Pattern of interacting in a confrontational, aggressive, and/or argumentative way with authority figures.

  • Little or no remorse for causing pain to others.

  • Consistent pattern of blaming others for what happens to him/her.

  • Little regard for truth, as reflected in a pattern of consistently lying to and/or conning others.

  • Frequent initiation of verbal or physical fighting.

  • History of reckless behaviors that reflect a lack of regard for self or others and show a high need for excitement, fun, and living on the edge.

  • Pattern of sexual promiscuity; has never been totally monogamous in any relationship for a year and does not take responsibility for children resulting from relationships.

  • Pattern of impulsive behaviors, such as moving often, traveling with no goal, or quitting a job without having secured another one.

  • Inability to sustain behavior that would maintain consistent employment.

  • Failure to function as a consistently concerned and responsible parent.


Diagnoses

 

  • Alcohol Dependence

  • Cocaine Dependence

  • Polysubstance Dependence

  • Adjustment Disorder With Disturbance of Conduct

  • Conduct Disorder

  • Intermittent Explosive Disorder

  • Antisocial Personality Disorder

  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder

  • Diagnosis Deferred

  • No Diagnosis

Effects of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Here are some common effects associated with Narcissistic Personality Disorder:

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Interpersonal Relationships: They may prioritize their own needs and desires above those of others, leading to interpersonal conflicts and strained relationships.


Emotional and Psychological Impact: Individuals with NPD may experience chronic feelings of emptiness, insecurity, and low self-esteem, despite their outward displays of grandiosity.

Work and Career: They may have difficulty working collaboratively with others, accepting criticism or feedback, and maintaining professional relationships.

Financial Matters: Individuals with NPD may engage in impulsive spending, seeking out luxury items or experiences to bolster their sense of self-worth.


Parenting and Family Dynamics: Individuals with NPD may struggle with parenting and family relationships due to their self-centeredness and lack of empathy.

Social Functioning: While individuals with NPD may have a wide social circle due to their charisma and charm, their relationships may be superficial and transactional in nature.

Mental Health and Well-being: Individuals with NPD may experience chronic feelings of emptiness, insecurity, and dissatisfaction, despite their outward displays of confidence and superiority.


Overall, Narcissistic Personality Disorder can have far-reaching effects on various aspects of an individual's life and the lives of those around them. Treatment for NPD typically involves psychotherapy aimed at addressing maladaptive behaviors, improving self-awareness and empathy, and fostering healthier interpersonal relationships. 

How does Narcissistic Personality Disorder affect your life?

Here's how NPD can affect different areas of life:
 

Interpersonal Relationships: They may exhibit manipulative and exploitative behaviors in relationships, using others to bolster their own self-esteem and seeking constant affirmation of their superiority.


Emotional Well-being: They may have difficulty regulating their emotions and may react defensively or aggressively to criticism or perceived threats to their self-image.


Work and Career: They may struggle with authority, have difficulty accepting feedback or criticism, and may engage in competitive or manipulative behaviors in the workplace.


Financial Matters: They may have difficulty managing finances effectively, leading to financial instability, debt, and dependence on others for financial support.


Parenting and Family Dynamics: Family members may experience emotional manipulation, invalidation, and neglect, leading to strained relationships and long-term emotional consequences.


Social Functioning:  They may struggle to form deep, meaningful connections with others, as their relationships are often based on admiration, validation, and personal gain rather than genuine emotional intimacy.
Mental Health and Well-being: They may be prone to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, especially when faced with criticism, rejection, or failure.


Overall, Narcissistic Personality Disorder can significantly impair an individual's functioning and quality of life, impacting relationships, work, finances, and emotional well-being. Treatment for NPD typically involves psychotherapy aimed at addressing maladaptive behaviors, improving self-awareness and empathy, and fostering healthier interpersonal relationships.

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