Narcissism “Conspiracy”: Historical Roots of Contemporary Narcissism Pandemic
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the three historical movements that have shaped modern society: the Renaissance, Protestantism, and the Enlightenment. He explains how these movements have led to the rise of pathological narcissism and its impact on society. Vaknin argues that these ideologies have created a culture of individualism, victimhood, and unrealistic expectations, leading to the current state of social and political turmoil. He suggests that in order to address these issues, there needs to be a substantial reform of social structures and institutions to move away from the values of the past and towards a more grounded and realistic approach.
Don’t Let Loneliness Define or Guide You! (Excerpt)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the impact of loneliness on people’s decision-making, particularly in relationships with narcissists. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs and gut instincts early on in dating, rather than denying them due to loneliness. Vaknin highlights the prevalence of loneliness in society and encourages individuals to embrace their own company and practice self-love, as no one else will do it for them.
NPD CANCELLED in ICD-11: Narcissism=Dissociality+Anankastia+Negative Affectivity (Starts 07:54)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the differences between the DSM and the ICD diagnostic manuals, focusing on the diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder. He explains that the ICD takes a more flexible and organic approach to diagnosing personality disorders, using trait domains and severity levels to capture the essence of narcissism without using the specific term “narcissistic personality disorder.” Vaknin also delves into the clinical manifestations and origins of narcissism, as well as the debate surrounding covert versus overt narcissism and the potential removal of narcissistic personality disorder from future editions of the DSM.
Psychopath Hopeful Breakthroughs: Oxytocin, Schema Therapy, Reciprocal Altruism (Literature Review)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the hopeful findings from recent studies on antisocial personality disorder, including psychopathy. He expresses discomfort with the hopeful nature of the studies, as his work typically focuses on bleak and hopeless topics. He explains that psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder are not recognized clinical terms and shares his views on their classification as mental illnesses. He also discusses the latest breakthroughs in understanding and treating these disorders, including the potential benefits of inter-nasal oxytocin and the importance of early intervention. Additionally, he explores the use of reciprocal altruism theory in therapy and the effectiveness of schema therapy for violent offenders with antisocial personality disorder. Throughout the lecture, he expresses skepticism and discomfort with the idea of hope for treating these disorders.
From Lovebombing to Conflict (TalkTV Interviews with Trisha Goddard)
Professor Sam Vaknin, a leading authority on narcissism, discusses the concept of love bombing and its role in coercive control. He explains that love bombing involves excessive affection and attention with the intent to manipulate someone into a desired behavior. He also highlights the importance of recognizing love bombing as a warning sign and its potential presence in various relationships, including workplace dynamics. Additionally, he emphasizes the need to expand the definition of love bombing and its association with coercive control. Furthermore, he delves into the psychological aspects of war, describing it as a narcissistic activity that involves dehumanizing and demonizing the enemy. Throughout the conversation, Vaknin provides valuable insights into these complex and often misunderstood phenomena.
Signs of SWITCHING in Narcissists and Borderlines (Read PINNED comment)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the phenomenon of switching in dissociative identity disorder, borderline personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder. He explains that switching is a common regulatory mechanism in these disorders and is triggered by stress, anxiety, and environmental cues. Vaknin describes the signs of switching, including emotional dysregulation, changes in body posture, and dramatic shifts in identity and behavior. He also emphasizes the impact of switching on relationships and the need for partners to adapt to the changing identities of individuals with these disorders.
Narcissism and Abuse Clarified with therapist Jose Espinosa
In this lecture, Professor Sam Vaknin discusses narcissistic abuse, the etiology of narcissism, and the impact of social media on narcissism. He explains that narcissistic abuse is an attempt by the narcissist to gain control over a specific target and convert them into a source of narcissistic supply within a shared fantasy. He also addresses the question of whether narcissists can suffer from narcissistic abuse and explains that narcissists start off as victims before choosing to become victimizers. Additionally, he discusses the misconceptions of narcissism and the influence of social media on narcissistic behaviors. Finally, he explains the differences between narcissistic personality disorder and narcissistic personality style and discusses the potential for change in narcissistic behaviors as individuals age.
Darkest Side of Narcissistic Abuse: Is It Intentional? (with Claire Auden)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the nature of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), its prevalence in the population, and the distinction between NPD and narcissistic traits. He explains that narcissism is underdiagnosed, especially among certain demographics like women, who now represent half of those diagnosed with NPD. Vaknin also touches on the increase in narcissistic and psychopathic behaviors in society, the role of therapy in treating narcissists, and the challenges in changing the core behaviors of individuals with NPD. He emphasizes that narcissists have a childlike mentality and that their relationships follow a cycle of idealization and devaluation, ultimately leading to discard. Vaknin suggests that narcissistic abuse is unique in its totalizing effect on victims and is driven by the narcissist’s need to reenact early childhood conflicts. He concludes that while behavioral modifications are possible in therapy, core changes in narcissists are not.
Creative Individual As Dark Personality
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the connection between creativity and mental illness, suggesting that mental illness may be a harbinger of creativity rather than intelligence. He explores the strategies that creative geniuses use to fit in with society, delves into the affinity between mental illness and creativity, and examines the shared genetic vulnerability framework of creativity and psychopathology. Vaknin also discusses the impact of the environment on creativity and mental illness, as well as the potential positive adaptation of mental illness for the species. He concludes by proposing that mental illness should not be stigmatized, as it has contributed to the advancements in science, art, and utility.
Mortified Narcissist, Borderline Switch Places: New Ideas for Therapy? (and Supply)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of narcissistic modification and its effects on the narcissist’s psyche. When a narcissist experiences modification, their defense mechanisms shut down, leading to emotional dysregulation and a sense of shame. This process can lead to a temporary transition to a borderline personality organization. The restoration of the narcissistic state hinges on narcissistic supply, which is preceded by a phase of self-supply. The lecture also explores the mirror image of this process in borderline personality disorder and suggests therapeutic implications for both conditions.