Narcissists (/nɑːrˈsɪsɪsts/) is a plural form of the word narcissist. It refers to people who have an excessive interest in themselves and their appearance, traits or abilities. The spelling of this word can be tricky due to the double "s" in the middle. However, it can be broken down phonetically as "nar-sis-ists" with the stress on the second syllable. It is important to spell this word correctly as it is a term used frequently in psychology and popular culture.
Narcissists are individuals who exhibit a pervasive pattern of selfishness, self-centeredness, and an excessive preoccupation with themselves and their own needs. The term is derived from the Greek mythological character Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection. In this sense, narcissists are consumed by their own self-image and seek constant admiration and validation from others.
A narcissist often has an inflated sense of self-importance and believes they are more talented, intelligent, or deserving than others. They typically display a lack of empathy towards others, as they prioritize their own desires and interests above all else. Narcissists have a constant need for attention and may go to great lengths to ensure they are the center of attention in social interactions.
Furthermore, narcissists frequently exploit and manipulate others to meet their own needs, often without regard for the well-being of others. They may engage in grandiose behaviors and exaggerate their achievements to gain admiration and praise. Narcissists also tend to have fragile self-esteem, which they protect by seeking constant affirmation from others.
While narcissistic traits can range in severity and presentation, the common thread is a pattern of self-absorption and an overwhelming desire to be the focus of attention. The behavior of a narcissist often causes distress and harm to others, as they prioritize their own needs and manipulate those around them to fulfill their own desires.
The word narcissist is derived from the Greek mythological character Narcissus. Narcissus was a handsome hunter who was known for his beauty. According to the myth, he was so infatuated with his own reflection in a pool of water that he couldn't tear himself away, eventually leading to his demise. The term narcissist is used to describe individuals who exhibit excessive self-love, selfishness, and a strong desire for admiration or attention from others. It entered the English language in the early 20th century, derived from the German word Narzissist.