Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the increasing prevalence of narcissism in society, fueled by societal messages and parenting practices that promote self-centeredness and grandiosity. He explains the detrimental effects of narcissism on individuals and institutions, and the impact on the formation
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the difference between the super ego and negative introjects, emphasizing the confusion caused by self-styled experts online. He explains that the primitive superego is not the same as the superego and that the superego is the
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the trilateral model of the psyche, consisting of the id, ego, and superego. He emphasizes that the superego is a part of the ego and plays a role in reality testing and socialization. Without a functioning
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of ambition, distinguishing it from motivation. He argues that ambition is a form of externalized social control, conditioning individuals to conform to societal norms and expectations. Ambition is characterized by counterfactual thinking, compulsivity, and
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the Cronon Field Theory, which he proposed in his PhD dissertation in 1984. The theory went dormant for 30 years until Eitan Sachet recast it in geometric terms. The theory posits that time is yielded by
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the misconception that there are fewer male victims of abuse and trauma. He argues that men are equally as likely to be victims of narcissistic abuse and other forms of abuse as women, but they are
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the destructive nature of envy, distinguishing it from jealousy and romantic jealousy. Envy is driven by shame, humiliation, and the idealization of the envied person, leading to a need for control and ultimately destruction of the
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of the charismatic magnetic narcissist, a type of narcissism that combines post-traumatic, reactive, and societal elements. He explains how the charismatic magnetic narcissist uses trauma, attention-seeking behavior, and conformity to societal norms to bond
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses how to infuriate a narcissist by using specific sentences that challenge their grandiose self-perception. He explains that statements like “I agree with you,” “I won’t do it,” or “Do you need some help?” can trigger a
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the complex issues of anti-Semitism, the identity of being Jewish, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He highlights the historical and ongoing challenges Jews face, both in Israel and the diaspora, and the varying experiences of Jews depending