The text discusses the relationship between borderline personality disorder and narcissism, suggesting that the borderline is a mirror image of the narcissist. It delves into the behaviors and reactions of both, highlighting the differences and similarities between the two disorders.
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses his experience at a Cold Therapy seminar in Romania and his thoughts on a book he received as a gift. He critiques arguments made in the book about atheism, religion, and spirituality, and emphasizes the importance
Recent studies have challenged common perceptions of borderline personality disorder. One study found that individuals can qualify for a diagnosis without engaging in self-harm or self-mutilation. Another study showed that combining individual and group schema therapy can lead to a
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of the reflexive self, which is the idea that individuals form their identities through constant self-reflection and self-awareness. He explains that in traditional societies, self-reflection was limited by the boundaries set by traditions, which
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the issue of selecting the wrong bed partners, attributing it to insecure attachment styles developed in dysfunctional families. He identifies two types of bad partners: those who are absent and threaten presence, and those who smother
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of ontological insecurity and its impact on identity. He emphasizes the importance of ontological security in developing a stable sense of self-identity and the potential consequences of ontological insecurity on mental and physical health.
Psychopathologies are adaptive mechanisms that allow individuals to grow around obstacles and reach a functional equilibrium. Humans are a life form that forms personality structures optimally suited to their needs and outside constraints. Personality configurations may be abnormal, but their
The text covers various topics, including the author’s book “Cold Therapy,” the importance of autonomy and independence in intimate relationships, the problem with the current transgender movement, and the concept of the mother interject and false self in narcissism. The
Professor Sam Vaknin warns against attempting to rescue victims of narcissistic abuse, as they are often trauma-bonded to their abuser and may not want to be saved. Victims may have a shared fantasy with their abuser, which is their comfort
Sam Vaknin explains the differences between healthy and pathological narcissism, and the differences between psychopaths and narcissists. He also discusses gaslighting, confabulation, and the strategies that children who experience abuse and trauma adopt. Sam believes that narcissists are very sick