A person with NPD also has a striking lack of empathy for others.
It’s not entirely understood why NPD occurs.
A combination of neurobiological, environmental, and genetic factors is thought to be at play.
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If you or someone you love is living with NPD, you might question if a narcissist can change.
The answer to this question isn’t a simple yes or no.
However, this does not mean it is impossible for individuals with NPD to change.
This can make it challenging to truly change.
For a person tochange, they need to recognize that they have a problem that needs to be fixed.
In many cases, people with NPD simply don’t believe anything is wrong with them.
Acknowledging the disorder and a willingness to change are requirements for any therapeutic process.
So, can a narcissist change?
In theory, the answer is yes.
“Theoretically, change is possible.
Langham,a Clinical Psychologist with a PhD in Family Psychology, adds.
Can NPD Be Cured?
There’s no “cure” for NPD.
These patterns can’t be gotten rid of easily.
This doesn’t mean there’s no hope for change or significant improvement or growth.
However, therapists have developed various strategies tailored to address the unique challenges of NPD.
CBT is beneficial for people with NPD because it directly addresses distorted thinking patterns.
Schema Therapy
Another therapeutic approach isschema therapy.
Schema therapy is like getting to the roots of a weed.
DBT provides you with new skills to manage painful emotions and decrease relationship conflict.
These skills are often underdeveloped in those with NPD.
It’s also important to note the role of group therapy.
These include Transference Focused Psychotherapy (TFP) and Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT).
Their unpredictability,lack of empathy, and constant need for admiration can make relationships with narcissists incredibly challenging.
However, there are practical strategies that can help you navigate these complex dynamics.
Maintain Firm Boundaries
According toDr.
They may also disregard your feelings, opinions, or needs.
To protect yourself from being exploited or abused, you better set clear and firm boundaries.
Let’s say you have a narcissistic friend who constantly belittles your accomplishments.
Remember, it’s okay toprotect your emotional space.
Practice Emotional Detachment
When dealing with a narcissist, it can be beneficial to practice emotional detachment.
This means not allowing a narcissist’s behavior to affect your emotional state or dictate your self-worth.
“Don’t let their words or actions affect your self-esteem or self-worth.
Acknowledge that they may not be capable of fulfilling these needs and look for ways to fulfill them elsewhere.
Seek Support
Having asolid support systemcan be invaluable when dealing with a narcissist.
This can be a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.
Sharing your experiences, frustrations, and feelings with someone understanding can provide emotional relief.
Avoid Power Struggles
Narcissists love winning and can draw you into unnecessary power struggles.
have a go at avoid these by not engaging in arguments that you know are unproductive.
Next Steps
For people diagnosed with NPD, change can seem impossible.
You must also confront deep-seated patterns of thought and behavior you have held for years.
2015 Aug;83(8):463-77; quiz 478.
