Narcissism (NAR-sih-siz-um)

From Narcissus, a figure in Greek mythology who became associated with destructive self-fascination. The psychological term developed in the late 19th century and became especially influential through early psychoanalytic theory, including the work of Sigmund Freud.

Greek Narkissos (Narcissus), the name of the mythological figure. The deeper etymology of the name itself is uncertain; it should not simply be derived from Greek narkē (“numbness”) as established fact.

In its early psychological usage, excessive or erotic interest directed toward oneself, named after the myth of Narcissus.

The Narcissus myth became a powerful metaphor for excessive self-absorption. Early psychologists and psychoanalysts adopted the name, and Freud’s 1914 essay On Narcissism helped establish the concept within psychoanalysis. Modern psychology distinguishes narcissistic traits, which can exist to varying degrees, from Narcissistic Personality Disorder, a specific clinical diagnosis. Everyday usage has broadened further and often describes someone perceived as excessively self-centered, entitled, or preoccupied with admiration.

Excessive self-focus, self-importance, entitlement, or need for admiration. In clinical contexts, narcissistic characteristics are more precisely defined and should not automatically be equated with Narcissistic Personality Disorder.

Narcissism, Narcissist, Narcissistic, Narcissistically, Narcissus

Narcissus, Greek Mythology, Ego, Self-Image, Vanity, Entitlement, Admiration, Empathy, Personality, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, Self-Esteem, Relationships