Psychopathic (Malignant) Narcissist: Best of Both Worlds (with Jim Mora, New Zealand)
Sam Vaknin, a diagnosed psychopathic narcissist, explains that narcissism is a desperate attempt to obtain attention to regulate the internal landscape of the narcissist. He describes the signs of narcissism, distinguishes between narcissistic personality disorder and narcissistic style, and argues that it is impossible for narcissists to have successful relationships. Narcissism is not treatable because it is the entire personality that is deformed beyond reconstruction in early childhood. Sam Vaknin discusses his journey of self-discovery and how he became an expert on narcissistic personality disorder.
7 Phases of Shared Fantasy: Narcissist Needs YOU to Make Him Great Again
Professor Sam Vaknin’s conceptual framework for understanding narcissists’ interpersonal relationships is based on the idea of a shared fantasy. The process begins with co-idealization, where the narcissist idealizes their partner and themselves. This is followed by dual mothership, where the narcissist and their partner take on maternal roles for each other. The narcissist then mentally discards their partner, leading to devaluation and splitting. Finally, the narcissist may attempt to re-idealize their partner to resolve anxiety caused by the devalued internal representation of their partner.
Narcissist First Discards You in His Mind, Then in Reality (EXCERPT)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the process of idealization, devaluation, discard, and replacement in the context of narcissistic behavior. He explains the psychological dynamics behind these stages and how they relate to the narcissist’s need to separate from their intimate partner. Vaknin delves into the complexities of the narcissist’s mindset and the internal struggle they face in justifying their actions. He also explores the discrepancy between the sequence of events in the narcissist’s mind and their actual behavior.
Signs Narcissist About to Discard, Devalue You
In a narcissist’s mind, the sequence of idealization, discard, and devaluation is reversed compared to their behavior in reality. They idealize their partner, then emotionally discard them in their mind, and finally devalue them to justify the discard. However, in reality, they must devalue their partner before discarding them to keep them around for the devaluation process. This discrepancy occurs because the narcissist needs their partner to be present during the devaluation phase, which wouldn’t be possible if they discarded them immediately after idealization.
Inner Child Second Chance: Using Psychosis to Heal NPD, BPD
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the progression from childhood psychosis to mental health and how it can go awry, leading to narcissism, borderline personality disorder, or psychopathy. He explains that all children start in a state of psychosis, and as they grow, they should transition to a healthy mental state. However, if this process is disrupted, the child may develop borderline personality disorder or narcissism. Decompensation in therapy can lead to regression, allowing the inner child to start again from the psychotic phase and progress to health with the help of a therapist.
When Your Pain Traumatizes Others: Vicarious (Secondary) Trauma
Vicarious trauma, also known as secondary traumatic stress, occurs when an individual is exposed to another person’s traumatic experiences, leading to emotional and psychological distress. This phenomenon is common among mental health professionals, but can also affect loved ones and others who empathize with trauma survivors. Vicarious trauma can have severe consequences on an individual’s mental and physical health, as well as their personal and professional relationships. To cope with and prevent vicarious trauma, individuals should practice self-care, seek therapy, and work on building resilience and happiness.
Collapse Variants Of Somatic Narcissism, Wounded Borderline Self Trashing
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the mispronunciation of “ketamine” and delves into the topic of narcissism and sexuality. He explains the differences between cerebral and somatic narcissists, and how they transition between these states, often experiencing collapse. Additionally, he explores the behavior of borderline women in response to abandonment, and the connection between collapse and personality disorder transitions.
Autism, Borderline, Narcissism: Some Similarities And Differences
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the polythetic problem in modern diagnostic psychology, where comorbidities, or multiple mental health issues, are diagnosed in the same individual. He explains that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) has not yet recognized that there may be only one personality disorder, which is a form of complex trauma or CPTSD. Vaknin also discusses the similarities and differences between autism, narcissism, and borderline personality disorder, noting that both narcissists and borderlines experience separation insecurity and create shared fantasies with intimate partners. However, borderlines distance themselves due to overwhelming anxiety, while narcissists devalue and discard partners to separate from a maternal figure.
Vaknin Rips Into Feminist: Genders, Sex, Relationships (Excerpts)
The speaker expresses strong opinions about feminism, particularly third-wave feminism, and its impact on women’s empowerment. They argue that contemporary women are disempowered, burdened with debt, and engage in self-destructive behaviors due to the influence of third-wave feminism. The speaker also criticizes the lack of intimacy in modern relationships and the negative effects of casual sex culture. They express contempt for younger generations and their perceived entitlement. The conversation ends abruptly after the speaker is provoked with the phrase “OK, boomer.”
Relationship Obsessive–compulsive Disorder (ROCD): Tormenting Doubts re: Partners and Relationships
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses Relationship Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (ROCD), a form of OCD that focuses on intimate relationships. ROCD can manifest in two ways: relationship-centered, where individuals obsess over their own feelings towards their partner and the rightness of the relationship, and partner-focused, where individuals obsess over their partner’s perceived flaws. ROCD can be debilitating and negatively impact relationships and overall life. Treatment for ROCD typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and, in some cases, medication.