Narcissus is a figure in Greek Mythology known for being self obsessed with his beauty. His vanity caused him to grow disdainful of other people. The Greek gods took notice and punished Narcissus by causing him to fall in love with his own reflection in the water. Unable to leave his own image, Narcissus withered away and died.
A Personality Disorder on the Rise
Even though we live well beyond ancient times, the concept of narcissism is still alive and stronger than ever. According to numerous psychology organisations, for instance the Association for Psychological Science, narcissism is on the rise. This is especially true for younger generations. Researchers found that college age people were three times more likely than 60 year olds to have narcissistic traits.
Experts are worried about the outcomes of an increase in narcissism. Narcissists tend to bring plenty of negative experiences to themselves and to people around them. Narcissists have a very high sense of self importance. They tend to have an unreasonable amount of entitlement, coupled with selfish or greedy behaviour. Narcissists have a lower amount of empathy than the average person, which can cause them to act exploitatively and manipulatively towards other people. Most people in society usually look at these traits negatively, so what could possibly create a rise of this personality type? How did this happen?
The Age of Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
Many have been quick to point out that the use of social media has coincided with this spike in narcissism. They believe that technology and social media allows you to focus more on yourself, moving society from collectivism toward an attitude of individualism. It is hard to argue with, since the entire point of a social media account like Twitter, Instagram or Facebook is for you to express your own thoughts. A social media account can drive the need to stand out and be special in an e-crowd. The internet has essentially provided tools that encourage narcissistic behaviour. And because young people use social media the most, young people are consequentially more susceptible.
The Self Esteem Movement
Many blame the self esteem culture, a movement that looks to promote the self esteem of younger people. Obviously supporting young people to feel a sense of confidence as they move through life is never a bad thing, but if out of balance can perhaps have negative side effects. The self esteem movement often involves praising people regardless of their actual achievements. Think of the participation trophies handed out to those who come last in a competition. The argument goes that these false rewards have backfired, giving people a false sense of achievement. As a result we have a generation of younger people who think too highly of themselves facilitating narcissistic characteristics.
Our Culture Rewards the Narcissists
Some people are speculating on whether certain aspects of our culture as a whole encourages narcissism. Look no further than the belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination. Western culture is infatuated with success, so it is only natural that our culture promotes anybody with successful traits. Despite all of their downfalls, narcissists typically have some positive traits that can breed success.
For instance, narcissists tend to have plenty of charisma and likability to make up for their negatives. Charisma is one of the most powerful tools for gaining power in the avenue of success. Charisma is what makes people become more drawn to you and fascinated with what you have to say. Having that salesmen like personality can mean more opportunities for promotion and leadership in your career.
Narcissists also tend to be suckers for power. One important aspect for achieving success is having high ambitions. The narcissist’s tendency toward adoration gives them the idea that they can accomplish anything. While overconfidence definitely has its downfalls, the right amount of confidence can still lead to great things. Even a narcissist’s lack of empathy can be turned into a plus in certain situations. Having a cutthroat attitude in business can be highly beneficial for some.
The Dangers of Narcissism
Despite all of a narcissist’s negative traits, they can not only survive but thrive in our society. But it’s important that we don’t forget there are a lot of negatives to this personality. While a lack of empathy can help someone get ahead in life, this can lead to immoral behaviour and a penchant for hurting other people. The constant exploitation and manipulation of others can create a toxic environment for anybody who is involved with the narcissist. Over time, narcissists cause damage to most people around them. If everybody in a society were driven by selfishness and egotism, our society would devolve into something much worse. That is why many people are looking for ways to combat the increase in narcissism that we are seeing.
Authors like Pat MacDonald, who wrote Narcissism in the Modern World, cautions about the dangers of the rise in narcissism; “Take, for example, members of parliament,” says MacDonald. “It’s a culture of: ‘Let’s grab it when we can.’… Group narcissism is huge. And the worst thing our collective narcissism is doing is the destruction of the planet. Together, we’re wiping out species after species after species, fuelled by consumerism, fuelled by our self-importance. Our narcissism may destroy us in the end.”
For more information on Alex’s work check out thenarcissisticlife.com and his
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