Behind Closed Doors: The Reality of Living with a Narcissist

 

Narcissism is one of the most damaging personality types for healthy family dynamics. People with this personality disorder are characterized by an inflated sense of self importance, arrogance, and a lack of empathy for others. Everyone is capable of being self centered from time to time, but narcissists take it to the extreme - and in doing so, create mentally damaging environments for their close relatives. Unfortunately, there is a one in two chance to have a narcissist within every household. 

The homes of a narcissist are full of toxic family structures such as poor communication, no clear boundaries, unhealthy competition, and secret keeping. After many years, the children and spouses of narcissists may develop long term mental effects like distrust, self loathing, and even substance abuse. Eventually, some family members may finally be fed up with the toxicity and decide to finally leave. It takes plenty of planning and strength to do so, but the sense of freedom can be well worth it.

Narcissism is one of the most damaging personality types for healthy family dynamics. People with this personality disorder are characterized by an inflated sense of self importance, arrogance, and a lack of empathy for others. Everyone is capable of being self centered from time to time, but narcissists take it to the extreme - and in doing so, create mentally damaging environments for their close relatives. Unfortunately, there is a one in two chance to have a narcissist within every household. 

The homes of a narcissist are full of toxic family structures such as poor communication, no clear boundaries, unhealthy competition, and secret keeping. After many years, the children and spouses of narcissists may develop long term mental effects like distrust, self loathing, and even substance abuse. Eventually, some family members may finally be fed up with the toxicity and decide to finally leave. It takes plenty of planning and strength to do so, but the sense of freedom can be well worth it.