One of the most challenging personality disorders is narcissistic personality disorder, which can combine a grandiose sense of self-importance with a need to manipulate others to get the desired results. If you or a loved one has this personality, it’s possible to begin healing by choosing a narcissistic personality disorder treatment program.
At Promises, we have many treatment options to help you or your loved one get help. Whether you want an intensive inpatient program or a more relaxed outpatient option that allows you to maintain your regular life, we can accommodate your needs. Speak with one of our staff members by calling 844.875.5609.
Types of Narcissism
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder that has several subcategories. The types of narcissism that the psychiatric community recognizes are:
- Overt narcissism
- Cover narcissism
- Communal narcissism
- Antagonistic narcissism
- Malignant narcissism
People with any of these types have an inflated sense of self-importance, but only some experience a lack of empathy that puts those they come into contact with at risk. Malignant narcissism is one of those subcategories.
What Is a Malignant Narcissist?
Although malignant narcissism isn’t an official diagnosis, it’s recognized as a severe and potentially dangerous form of narcissistic personality disorder. Malignant narcissists have not only the self-absorption of someone with NPD, but they also have a lack of empathy and a willingness to cause harm if it means they achieve their goal.
For most malignant narcissists, gaining control over others is the ultimate desired result. Vitally, those with this disorder suffer from low self-esteem and deep-seated insecurities that make them lash out as they do.
Some of the most common signs of a malignant narcissist include:
- Inflated sense of self
- Preoccupation with fantasies about success, beauty, brilliance
- Willingness to take advantage of others
- Lack of empathy toward others
- Tendency to monopolize conversations
- Expectation to be treated as superior
- Inability to handle criticism
- Weak sense of self
- Unwillingness to apologize
- No remorse
- Tendency to lash out
The cause of malignant narcissism or any other type of NPD is not fully known. Most psychologists believe that, like most mental health disorders, it’s a result of many factors. Suffering childhood abuse or having overly authoritarian parents can be a cause, but so can having overly pampering parents.
Additionally, having a close relative with any NPD can make it more likely for someone to develop the condition.
Treatment for Malignant Narcissism
The treatment for malignant narcissism is the same as for any type of NPD. A challenging aspect of treating this condition, however, is that those who have a malignant narcissistic personality may resist getting help because they don’t have insight into their behavior.
Talk therapy can be effective, especially dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which was originally created for the treatment of borderline personality disorder but can be adapted to treat narcissism. DBT focuses on emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Group therapy is also vital for anyone with an NPD. It helps the person practice interacting with others and get a sense of how others see them.
Additionally, family therapy can help if there are family dynamic issues that need to be addressed. Family therapy makes it easier to improve communication between members when there’s a malignant narcissist in the family.
Get the Help You Need With Treatment at Promises
If you or a loved one has a malignant narcissistic personality disorder, getting insight into the condition can be an important first step. At Promises, we offer treatment programs for people with personality disorders as well as for family members who have struggled to understand them.
From inpatient to outpatient care, we offer the guidance you need by providing individual, group, and family therapy sessions. Begin the healing process by contacting Promises at 844.875.5609 or through our online contact form.