The Epidemic of Narcissism

Narcissists use others to carry disavowed, unwanted aspects of themselves. Underneath, they feel extremely insecure and fragile. So, they project that insecurity and fragility onto others and see others as fragile and weak, so they can see themselves as strong and superior.

Unfortunately, our society has enabled and even encouraged this type of behavior. Hierarchical competition encourages dominance, which lends itself to narcissism as a way of getting ahead. Social media feeds on the cancellation of others in favor of the promotion and aggrandizement of oneself.

Awareness and action are the only ways to stop this sort of behavior. Setting firm and clear boundaries with narcissists. Stating to them the impact of their actions on you, and not engaging with them at all when they don’t respect your boundaries. There is nothing glamorous at all, despite popular culture, about being a narcissist.