Anxious Psychopath, Borderline Mask
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of the narcissistic masochist, a type of personality disorder characterized by seeking rejection, deriving pleasure from self-pity, having a harsh superego, experiencing envy, feeling wronged, and having a fluctuating self-esteem. He also mentions that the narcissistic masochistic position is not about pleasure in pain, but rather the position of submission, which provides a sense of safety and well-being. Lastly, he clarifies the difference between neuroticism and neurosis, with the former being a personality trait and the latter being an obsolete term for a group of disorders.
Borderline vs. Narcissist Idealization Fantasies
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the differences between the borderline’s shared fantasy and the narcissist’s shared fantasy. He explains that both borderline and narcissist have similarities, but their internal psychodynamics are very different. The borderline has empathy and overwhelming emotions, while the narcissist lacks emotional empathy and experiences only negative emotions. The shared fantasies of the borderline and the narcissist are also different, with the borderline having a variety of shared fantasies and the narcissist having a simpler, maternal-based shared fantasy. Both types of individuals end up in a victim role, leading to a cycle of idealization and demonization in their relationships.
PTSD: Emotional Numbing, Reduced Affect Display (25th Intl. Conference Neurology & Neurophysiology)
Emotional numbing, a core feature of PTSD, is a phenomenon where trauma survivors experience restrictions in their emotional experiences. Recent developments in understanding trauma have led to the reconceptualization of personality disorders as post-traumatic conditions. There are two types of PTSD: externalizing, where trauma is projected, and internalizing, where trauma destroys the ability to emote, leading to emotional numbing. Emotional numbing can be a temporary defense mechanism against overwhelming anxiety, but if it becomes a permanent state, it can lead to psychiatric disorders and dissociation.
Masochistic Covert Antinarcissist
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses anti-narcissism and its connection to sexual self-trashing and masochism. He explains that anti-narcissism is a form of narcissism where emotional and cognitive resources are externalized, and the individual invests in self-generated narcissistic supply. He delves into the concept of masochism and its role in the grandiosity of the anti-narcissistic covert narcissist, as well as the transition of narcissists to the masochistic position.
Loving the Borderline in Her Fantasy
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the love life, sexual fantasies, and relationships of borderline women, as well as the connection between borderline personality disorder and promiscuity. He delves into the origins and manifestations of the disorder, including its link to childhood trauma and heredity. Vaknin also explores the impact of these dynamics on relationships and the potential for resonance or exacerbation of pathologies in such pairings.
High-functioning Autism: Psychopathy? Narcissism?
High-functioning autism (HFA) is often misdiagnosed as narcissistic personality disorder or psychopathy due to similarities in behavior, such as a lack of empathy, brain abnormalities, and criminal behavior. However, there are key differences between HFA and these personality disorders, such as language skills and social functioning. While HFA is a brain disorder with no intellectual disability, narcissism and psychopathy are personality disorders that can be linked to early childhood experiences and trauma. It is important not to make snap judgments when observing someone’s behavior, as the distinctions between these disorders are complex and nuanced.
Real Narcissists are Covert, Grandiose Narcissists are Psychopaths
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses compensatory narcissism, self-discrepancy theory, and anosognosia in narcissism. He reviews a recent study that provides evidence for the existence of compensatory narcissism and explains the distinction between vulnerable and grandiose narcissism. He also addresses the concept of anosognosia and its relevance to narcissism.
Reframing YOU in Narcissist’s Shared Fantasy
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the suggestions he’s received to change his name, but ultimately decides to remain Sam Vaknin. He then addresses questions about relationships with narcissists, one-night stands, and the psychology of young people, expressing concern about the emotional and mental health of today’s youth. He also delves into the psychological dynamics of one-night stands, sexting behaviors, and the narcissist’s perspective on a promiscuous partner.
Why Do They Infuriate YOU? Promiscuity and Compulsive Sexting
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the reactions people have to narcissists and psychopaths, analyzing the phenomenon using concepts like life promiscuity and sexual promiscuity. He delves into the characteristics and behaviors of psychopaths, including their lack of insight, evasiveness, and lack of boundaries. He also explores the correlation between promiscuity and mental health disorders, as well as the impact of compulsive sexting. Additionally, he touches on the dynamics of intimate partner cheating and promiscuity in relation to schizoid cerebral narcissism.
Warning Young Folks: Silence When We Are All Gone
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses his concerns about the younger generation, noting their lack of emotions, meaningful relationships, and intellectual pursuits. He believes that the focus on action over emotion and cognition is leading to a culture of nihilism and disconnection. Vaknin argues that positive emotions should drive actions, as negative emotions lead to destructive outcomes. He concludes that the current state of the younger generation is a mental suicide, and that a shift in focus towards emotions, cognition, and meaningful connections is necessary for a better future.