NARCISSIST: IT’S NOT A BUZZWORD

So, pop psychology - it’s a bit of a double edged sword. It has the power to positively promote mental health awareness to a new and wider audience, encourage personal growth and introspection. I have no doubt it’s also helped many people seek further information and clarity on psychological concepts. In fact, I have seen firsthand online how it’s lead to more meaningful conversations and a better understanding of behaviour/our responses. However, on the flip side of this is where it can become dangerous. I’ve observed time and time again (mostly on reality TV/social media), this trend of overusing and misusing certain terminology. It’s often said with flippancy and it simplifies very complex concepts. I am all for opening up difficult conversations for the right reasons, but it’s on us to share our opinions responsibly and with integrity. Unless you are a health professional and qualified to do so, using terms to label someone with such conviction like narcissist, can be problematic. The misuse of this not only trivialises the true meaning of NPD, but it can also negatively impact the victims who are suffering. Victims may minimise their own experiences by confusing insults or inaccurate descriptions, with the true pathological condition/abuse - welcome to the stage, NPD Vs narcissism.