Narcissism as it applies to psychology was first applied by Freud who drew it from the obvious connection to the Greek mythological character, Narcissus who was involved in an exclusive self-absorption. While considered a completely normal and natural stage in child development, narcissism is marked by that period in our lives when the entire world exists because we are there. In adolescence, after puberty, secondary narcissism occurs and is manifested in a sexual expression that is directed exclusively toward the self. Some degree of narcissism throughout all stages of life is considered normal as it is manifested in a healthy self-regard coupled with realistic aspirations for the self and life. The point at which narcissism becomes pathological and can be diagnosed as a personality disorder is when it begins to impair social function. Individuals with this disorder have little or no empathy for others and an inflated sense of their own importance and of the significance of their achievements. It is common for persons with this disorder to compare themselves to famous people of achievement and to express surprise when others do not share or voice the same perception. They feel entitled to great praise, attention, and deferential treatment by others, and have difficulty understanding or acknowledging the needs of others. They envy others and imagine that others are envious of them. The person with narcissistic personality disorder has no patience with others, and quickly strays from situations where he or she is not the center of attention and conversation. A person who demonstrates narcissistic personality disorder tends to maintain a highly exaggerated sense of self-importance and "specialness". Often, the clinically diagnosed narcissist is frequently occupied, to an excess, with fantasies about his/her own attributes and potentials for success in all aspects of life, and also generally depends upon confirmation from others for reinforcement of that self-image. The narcissist tends to experience difficulties maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships, stemming primarily from a distinct lack of empathy with a propensity for the taking of advantage of others in the interest of self-aggrandizement. Narcissism is often diagnosed comorbidly with antisocial personality disorders.
