The belief that the world revolves around them is a key characteristic of narcissism and is closely related to their grandiose self-view. There are several factors that contribute to why narcissists think this way:
Grandiosity and Sense of Superiority: Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and believe they are unique, exceptional, or superior to others. This grandiose self-view leads them to see themselves as the center of attention and deserving of special treatment.
Lack of Empathy: Narcissists often have a limited ability to empathize with others. They struggle to understand or care about other people's feelings and perspectives, which can reinforce their belief that their own needs and desires are the most important.
Seeking Validation and Admiration: Narcissists have an insatiable need for admiration and validation from others. They constantly seek attention and praise to bolster their fragile self-esteem. Believing that the world revolves around them allows them to maintain a constant source of attention and affirmation.
Emotional Immaturity: Narcissists often display emotional immaturity, resembling the self-centeredness of a young child. They may not have developed a realistic understanding of their place in the world and instead view everything through the lens of their own desires and wishes.
Defense Mechanisms: Narcissism can be seen as a defense mechanism to protect against feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. By creating a grandiose self-view and believing that the world revolves around them, they shield themselves from facing their deeper insecurities.
Fantasy and Escapism: Narcissists may engage in grandiose fantasies about unlimited success, power, and admiration. These fantasies allow them to escape from reality and further reinforce the belief that they are exceptional and central to everything.
Cognitive Biases: Narcissists may exhibit cognitive biases that reinforce their self-centered worldview. For example, they may selectively interpret information and experiences in a way that supports their grandiose self-view while ignoring or dismissing anything that challenges it.
It's important to remember that narcissism exists on a spectrum, and not all individuals with narcissistic traits will display the same level of self-centeredness or grandiosity. Additionally, while some narcissistic behaviors may serve a protective function for the individual, they can also lead to significant difficulties in their relationships and overall functioning.