Narcissism and Its Discontents: A Comprehensive Guide to Treating Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissism, a complex and multifaceted personality disorder, poses unique challenges for clinicians. The question remains: what is narcissism, really? Is it an excess of self-love, profound insecurity, low self-esteem, or too much self-esteem? The answer lies in understanding the variable nature of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which demands a tailored treatment approach.

Adapting Treatment to the Patient

Narcissism and Its Discontents recognizes the importance of adjusting treatment to the individual patient, rather than forcing them into a rigid, manualized treatment plan. This adaptable approach ensures that clinicians can provide the most effective care possible, even in the face of challenging situations.

This comprehensive guide offers clinicians a range of strategies for dealing with the complexities of narcissistic patients, including transference and countertransference. By integrating research and psychoanalytic theory, the authors provide a nuanced understanding of the psychotherapeutic strategies that can be employed in various treatment settings.

Cultural Aspects of Narcissism

The cultural fascination with NPD is undeniable, particularly in today’s age of social media, politics, and celebrity. Narcissism and Its Discontents dedicates a chapter to examining the cultural implications of narcissism, providing valuable insights for clinicians working with patients from diverse backgrounds.

Regardless of the treatment setting – psychoanalysis, psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, partial hospital, or inpatient – this guide offers a wealth of approaches for treating a diverse and challenging patient population. By acknowledging the complexity of NPD, clinicians can develop a deeper understanding of their patients and provide more effective care.

Publication Details

Published by: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
Publication Date: March 30, 2018
Language: English
ISBN: 9781615371273, 9781615371938