Narcissus was a mythological Greek male who looked adoringly at himself in the reflection of a stream and became forever in love with his own image. From that mythology a definition of a type of personality was born...Narcissism. In its extreme it is known as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). This type of disorder is characterized by an all consuming focus on oneself to the exclusion of anyone else.

This person has no regard for anyone's feelings, is without empathy, usually takes advantage of others for personal gain, seeks admiration from all he comes in contact with and is likely to be caught up with the fantasy of his own self importance. Narcissism is more often found in men than women (3 times more men than woman).

NPD is at the extreme end of the spectrum and there are many more people with narcissistic traits than those with NPD. However, I will be focusing on NPD in this article.

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....and not even acknowledge it to himself! Why? Because he's off charming the socks off of new women as if your years together didn't even exist!

The narcissistic ex continually acts in abusive, bewildering and confusing ways. He is not above committing destructive acts. When the breakup becomes a reality, it is likely that his 'false persona' will completely disappear all together and you will most likely experience the most hurtful of behavior from him. He is completely lacking in empathy, and - since he is not receiving any admiration from you anymore - he will dismiss you and discard you as worthless to him, consequently dropping any fake front that he use to put up in order to keep you in the relationship. Click here to read 'Breaking Up With a Narcissist' by Tigress Luv

There are many attributes that can be used to help one to identify a narcissist. Since becoming involved with someone who has this disorder will likely turn out to be a very negative experience it is a good idea to know what to watch for.

He needs to be right all the time. This is part of the inflated ego of the narcissist, never admitting wrongdoing or misjudgment. He will try to manipulate the data and the conversation in such a way as to find fault with everyone but himself.

He exaggerates or lies about accomplishments. This trait is part of the need to feel superior by using grandiose statements to boost his feelings of self importance.

He expects special treatment wherever he is and whatever the circumstance. This could seen as obnoxious or overly pushy behavior in a restaurant or theater, as though he deserved a certain "celebrity" status.

He craves admiration or adoration from everyone. If he can't get that need met he may become angry or hostile like some petulant child who can't get his way.

He has no concern for others. He lacks sympathy or empathy and acts as if other people's feelings are not important.

He will often try to dominate a conversation, as though his input were far more valuable than anyone else's.

He tries to manipulate or even brainwash others into believing what he wants them to believe.

He is often envious of others who he sees as celebrated or rich. He also believes others are envious of him, supporting his fantasy that he is more powerful, smarter or even richer than he actually is.

AUTHOR CREDIT

Stanley Hyman, LCSW
Life Coach and Psychotherapist
http://www.AventuraStressRelief.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stanley_Hyman

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