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.
Trust Your Gut: Victimized, not Victim (Interview with Caroline Strawson)
Caroline Strawson, a trauma-informed therapist and coach, interviewed Professor Sam Vaknin, an expert on narcissism. They discussed the complexities of narcissistic abuse, the importance of understanding the abuser’s background without excusing their behavior, and the need for victims to focus on self-love, setting boundaries, and trusting their instincts. Vaknin emphasized the dangers of victimhood as an identity and the societal trend towards tribalism and aggression. He advised against retaliating against abusers, as it perpetuates the cycle of abuse.
Dark Triad Victims, Animal Empathy, Alpha Male (+Schizotypals, Freud)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses a variety of topics, including schizotypal personality disorder, victim movements, and the infiltration of victim movements by dark triad personalities. He also delves into the concept of empathy in animals and the connection between emotions and empathy. Additionally, he explores the work of Sigmund Freud and the potential revival of interest in his theories in light of recent discoveries in neuroscience. Finally, he shares an excerpt from the book “Cast: The Origins of Our Discontents” by Isabel Wilkerson, discussing the concept of true alpha males in the animal kingdom.
Is Narcissist Self-aware, Introspective? (Global Meeting on Stress Management, March 2021)
Narcissists often have a false self that takes over their true self, leading to a lack of self-awareness and an inability to change. They may gain cognitive understanding of their disorder, but without an emotional connection, this knowledge does not lead to transformation or healing. The narcissist’s introspection is often emotionless and focused on maintaining their false self, rather than addressing their true emotions and experiences. As they grow older, their sources of narcissistic supply dwindle, leading them to withdraw further into a dreamland of grandiosity and potentially develop paranoia.
How I Experience My Narcissism: Aware, Not Healed
Sam Vaknin discusses his experience with narcissism, how it has affected his life, and how it has become a part of his identity. He explains that narcissism is a personality disorder that defines the narcissist’s waking moments and nocturnal dreams. Despite his self-awareness, Vaknin admits that he is powerless to change his narcissism. The narcissist experiences their life as a long, unpredictable, terrifying, and saddening nightmare.
Your Child At Risk: How Narcissists Are Made
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the origins of narcissism, the debate surrounding its nature, and its impact on children. He explores the role of parents in shaping a child’s self-concept and the development of narcissistic traits. Vaknin delves into the psychological defense mechanisms and behaviors of narcissists, emphasizing the impact of early experiences on the formation of pathological narcissism. He also highlights the complex dynamics of narcissistic supply and the manipulation of reality by narcissistic personalities.
Relationships Inauthentic, Will Always Fail (Sartre’s “Being and Nothingness”, SECOND LECTURE)
The text discusses Sartre’s views on desire, consciousness, and freedom. Sartre introduces the concept of desire as motivated by a lack or absence, and discusses the inherent contradiction in desire. He also delves into the nature of consciousness and the limitations of freedom. The text explores Sartre’s ideas on authenticity and ethics, and his belief that values are auto-generated through individual choices. The author reflects on Sartre’s contributions and his impact on philosophical discourse.
Ego is Opposite of Narcissism: Ego Functions
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the concept of ego functions and their role in personality and mental health. Ego functions include reality testing, impulse control, regulation of emotions, judgment, object relations, thinking, defenses, and synthesis. A healthy ego is essential for proper functioning and maintaining a coherent identity. However, there are inherent problems and contradictions within the concept of the ego, such as the conflict between reality testing and defense mechanisms. Ego is often misunderstood and misused in popular culture, with many mistakenly associating it with narcissism. In reality, a healthy ego is the opposite of narcissism, as it is grounded in reality and not grandiosity.
Narcissist, Schizoid, Psychotic: Progression, Common Roots
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the interplay between schizoid and narcissistic personality disorders, emphasizing the subjective nature of trauma and the impact of endogenous traumas. He explores the cultural and psychodynamic roots of these disorders, highlighting the connection between narcissism and schizoid states. Vaknin also delves into the concept of lone wolf narcissists and the societal factors contributing to the rise of schizoid and narcissistic behaviors.
Narcissists, Psychosis, Eternal Victims: Splitting the Inner Dialog
Narcissists feel like victims because of a disruption in their inner dialogue, leading to confusion between internal and external objects. This confusion is resolved through a defense mechanism called splitting, where the narcissist sees themselves as all bad and the world as all good, or vice versa. This can lead to dissociation and other mental health issues. Trauma and addiction can also be linked to this disrupted inner dialogue.