The belief that narcissists hold about their superiority and entitlement is a complex and debated topic in psychology. Different schools of thought provide varying explanations for the behavior of narcissists, and there might not be a one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, it is believed that narcissists have a distorted and exaggerated sense of self-importance, but the exact nature of their beliefs can vary from individual to individual.
Some possible explanations include:
Grandiose self-belief: Many narcissists genuinely believe they are superior to others in various ways. They may have an inflated perception of their abilities, appearance, or achievements. This belief in their superiority can be a core aspect of their personality.
Defense mechanism: Narcissistic behavior might also be a defense mechanism to protect a fragile self-esteem. Deep down, some narcissists may have feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt, and their grandiose attitude serves as a shield to mask these insecurities.
Cognitive distortion: Narcissists may have cognitive distortions that lead them to perceive the world in a way that supports their grandiosity. They might interpret situations and information in a manner that confirms their sense of superiority, even if it's not grounded in reality.
Manipulation and impression management: Some narcissists may engage in behaviors that project an image of superiority and entitlement as a way to control and manipulate others. It can be a calculated strategy to gain power and attention.
Learned behavior: In some cases, narcissistic traits could develop as a learned behavior. Certain environmental factors or early life experiences may contribute to the development of narcissistic tendencies.
It's essential to understand that narcissism exists on a spectrum, ranging from healthy levels of self-confidence and self-esteem to pathological levels of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). While some people may display narcissistic traits from time to time, individuals with NPD exhibit a consistent and pervasive pattern of behaviors that significantly impact their relationships and functioning.
In any case, whether narcissists genuinely believe in their superiority or not, their behavior can be harmful to themselves and others. It often leads to unhealthy and dysfunctional relationships, as they prioritize their own needs over those of others and struggle to empathize with others' feelings. Treatment for individuals with narcissistic tendencies or NPD can be challenging, as they might be resistant to therapy due to their inflated self-image and difficulty acknowledging their own shortcomings. However, some therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, can be beneficial in addressing underlying issues and promoting healthier ways of relating to others.