In this lecture, Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the development of pathological narcissism and its underlying psychodynamics. He explains that narcissism is a post-traumatic condition that begins in early childhood when a child’s need to be seen by their primary caregiver
In this lecture, Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of the unconscious and its role in narcissism. He explains that defense mechanisms are automatic but not unconscious, and that the concept of the unconscious is debatable in psychology. He also
Professor Sam Vaknin explains that mental health diagnoses have three elements: etiology, psychodynamics, and behavioral manifestations. When comorbidities occur, one disorder is dominant and dictates the patient’s behaviors, while the other disorder contributes only in specific circumstances. Transitioning between self-states
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses whether narcissistic abuse is intentional or not. He argues that while the actions of narcissists fulfill a purpose, they are not intentional, as narcissists lack a core identity and cannot distinguish between reality and fantasy. In
Pathological narcissism involves the combination of victimhood and grandiosity, which are cognitive distortions and reaction formations. The narcissist uses these to compensate for feelings of weakness and shame, creating a false narrative of perfection. Both victimhood and grandiosity involve emotionally
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the importance and mechanics of creating a case study. He emphasizes the narrative and conclusion components, which include facts, context, theories, assumptions, analysis, criticism, and solutions. He also highlights the need to consider the audience and
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of fantasy and narcissistic elation, emphasizing the role of fantasy in regulating the narcissist’s emotions and self-perception. He explains the differences between the bad object and the idealized object, and how they relate to
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the role of the false self in pathological narcissism, focusing on its function to silence inner voices, known as introjects. The false self acts as a censor, banishing conflicting introjects and creating a one-party state in
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses gaslighting by proxy, where third parties are used to manipulate and distort reality to make the victim doubt their perception. He explains three examples: flying monkeys, triangulation, and the Karpman drama triangle. Flying monkeys collaborate with
In this lecture, Professor Sam Vaknin discusses three signs of mental health. He explains that mentally healthy individuals have impulse control, self-awareness, and empathy. He contrasts these traits with the lack of impulse control, lack of self-awareness, and reduced empathy