Narcissism Questions, 3

What causes a person to develop a Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

According to the DSM-5, the exact cause or causes are unknown. Potential contributors include: 

• ·            Genetic changes and heritability
• ·            Changes in the structure or functioning of the brain
• ·            A parenting style either excessively pampering/spoiling or excessively critical (either can start a child on a journey of entitlement, an overestimation of his/her own abilities, the manipulation of others for his/her own ends, and a need to be viewed as better than everyone else). 

Risk factors may include: 

• ·       Family history of mental health disorders
• ·       Unpleasant family life during childhood
• ·       Adverse Childhood Experiences, ACE’s
• ·       Conduct disorder during childhood 

More tomorrow.