Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is estimated to be present in 1% of the population. There is conflicting evidence pointing to this number actually being as high as 1 in 25 people demonstrating the characteristics of NPD. This discrepancy of figures has to do with the fact that people who have this disorder deny their own problematic behavior and tend to refuse therapy. Those who are in the environment of people with narcissism, most often the family, suffer the destructive consequences. The characteristics of people with pathological narcissism are; rigidity, feelings of omnipotence, entitlement, lovelessness, aggression, dominance, manipulation, selfishness, negativity, lying, oversensitivity and hiding the true self behind a mask of a charming persona.

First impression

The first impression of these emotional abusers is often remarkably good. The true self is suffering an inner emptiness, which is why the narcissist depends on the constant energy or approval of others. Others are used to continuously upholding the imagined positive self-image of the narcissist. Others needing validation in the relationship is not of interest to a person with NPD. Narcissistic people are very well able to focus positive attention intensely on others for a limited time, especially if they feel it is necessary to stay admired.

Calculating behavior

Over time, sometimes after years their calculating behavior begins to emerge, and it becomes increasingly more apparent, that repeatedly, only their agenda is of importance. It may be understandable that this one-sided relationship becomes unbearable for family members, who end up always walking on eggshells. In the work environment, co-workers run a high risk of suffering from burn-out; a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion.

Survivor of emotional abuse?

For survivors of emotional abuse, help and guidance are needed to restore the emotional, mental and physical damage. Living with manipulation, even if subtle, often for many years, leads to emotional instability and depression. The aftereffect of emotional abuse resembles the symptoms of PTSD. Seeing a therapist that is familiar with healing after emotional abuse is of great importance for the healing process.

My specialization

I specialize in Trauma Processing Psychotherapy aimed specifically at survivors of emotional abuse. Being brought up or living in an unsafe or dysfunctional family or relationship, where a parent or a partner has a personality disorder, causes many psychological and/or physical problems later in life.

For support after dealing with emotional trauma, you can find specialized counseling at: www.psychological-abuse.com.