What underlies narcissistic behavior?
It is relatively easy to describe narcissistic behavior. We tend to look at the characteristics that we see in an attempt to understand the narcissist, and these are easy to see once we know what to look for. But these are the symptoms, not the causes. Narcissistic symptoms display a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy that usually begins by early adulthood. This pattern of grandiosity can be seen in the narcissists’ views of their own uniqueness and abilities. Narcissists are beyond being self-centered, viewing themselves very highly and expecting others to view them the same. Their preoccupation with themselves and requiring constant attention and admiration from others disturbs their interpersonal relationships especially with their lack of empathy.Ref All narcissists view themselves very highly and expect others to view them the same. A narcissist displays most, sometimes all, of the following traits: • An obvious self-focus in interperson