Psychology of Urban Warfare
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the psychological implications of urban warfare, drawing from his personal experience and military expertise. He describes the challenges and complexities of urban combat, the impact on soldiers, and the lasting effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. The intense and isolating nature of urban warfare leads to extreme psychological strain, desensitization, and moral collapse, affecting both attackers and defenders.
Are All Narcissists Also Sadists? (Compilation)
Sam Vaknin discusses the differences between cruelty and sadism, emphasizing that while both involve causing pain, their motivations and psychological underpinnings differ. Sadism is about deriving pleasure from inflicting pain and is often premeditated and creative. It is a form of hedonism and is outward-oriented, recognizing the victim as a separate entity to be annihilated. In contrast, cruelty is reactive and self-regulatory, linked to narcissism and often a response to mortification. It is about restoring a grandiose self-image and involves unnecessary excess. Cruelty sustains a narrative of moral superiority and retributive justice, and it requires the victim’s recognition of being hurt. Unlike sadism, cruelty can provoke counter-cruelty and is situational, potentially stopping when the situation is resolved. Sadism, on the other hand, is a permanent trait.
Narcissist’s Never Give, Always Take Delusion: Effort Reward Imbalance, Overcommitment
The text discusses the concept of effort-reward imbalance in the context of narcissistic relationships. It explains how narcissists feel entitled to recognition and rewards without putting in the necessary effort. The text also delves into the impact of this imbalance on the mental and physical health of the partner, as well as the narcissist’s tendency to externalize their reactions to the imbalance. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the imbalance in such relationships.
Cruelty Is Not Sadism Narcissism, Not Pleasure
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the topics of cruelty and sadism, differentiating between the two. He explains that cruelty is reactive and a form of narcissistic defense, while sadism is focused on pleasure and involves premeditation and creativity. Cruelty is situational and can be stopped, while sadism is a character trait that persists. Vaknin also delves into the psychological motivations and justifications behind both cruelty and sadism, emphasizing the internal and external aspects of each.
The Only 6 Rules You Need for a Better Life
The speaker shares their admiration for elephants and the wisdom they associate with the animal. They then proceed to outline six rules for living a balanced and healthy life, as imparted by their “Pachydermic friend.” The rules cover self-respect, advocating for oneself, skepticism, seeking advice, observing reactions to adversity, and personal growth. The speaker emphasizes the importance of respecting oneself, being assertive, and trusting one’s instincts. They also stress the value of time, the true nature of people, and personal growth through behavioral change.
Opposites No Longer Attract How Narcissism Corrupts Mate Selection
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses mate selection and the impact of narcissism on modern relationships. He argues that people now seek partners who mirror their own traits and beliefs, rather than complementing them. This shift is attributed to the rise of narcissism, which has led to a decline in diversity and a focus on seeking validation and narcissistic supply from partners. Studies show that similarities, especially in political and religious beliefs, play a significant role in mate selection, and opposites no longer attract in long-term relationships. The professor also suggests that narcissism has degraded the mate selection process and poses an evolutionary threat to the human species.
Adopted, Foster Care Children Avoiding Mental Health Issues
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the impact of adoption and foster care on children’s mental health and behavior. He emphasizes the importance of early maternal care and the trauma experienced by children in these systems. He highlights the enduring psychological effects and the need for full disclosure of the child’s history to inform therapy and public policy.
Narcissism Revisited (with Iranian Psychoanalyst Ali Reza Bornamanesh)
Summary: The conversation covers the classification of narcissism, the differential diagnosis between antisocial personality disorder and covert narcissistic personality disorder, the challenges of treating personality disorders, and the dominance of CBT in psychotherapy in Iran. The discussion also delves into the difficulties of practicing psychoanalysis in Iran, including the cultural barriers to free association in therapy. The conversation ends with an agreement to have a second meeting to further explore the topic of psychotherapy in Iran.
Borderline=Failed Narcissist: Intermittent Mother, not “Dead” (EXCERPT)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the complex dynamics of relationships involving covert borderline and borderline personality disorder individuals. He delves into the origins of these disorders, their impact on relationships, and the interplay between them. Vaknin also explores the psychological defenses and behaviors exhibited by individuals with these disorders, shedding light on their intricate interactions.
Ideal Love Fantasy Borderline And Covert Borderline ( Odd Couples Part 3)
Professor Sam Vaknin discusses the complex dynamics of relationships between covert borderlines and individuals with borderline personality disorder. He delves into the diagnostic criteria for borderline personality disorder and the impact of covert borderlines on their partners. The covert borderline’s grandiosity, need for ideal love, and communication style are explored, as well as the challenges in maintaining stable relationships. The professor also addresses the impact of the covert borderline’s behavior on their partners and the potential outcomes of these relationships.