Yes, a narcissist can experience sadness when someone they care about, such as a parent or grandparent, dies. However, their experience of sadness might be different from someone without narcissism.
Narcissists do have emotions, including sadness, but their emotional responses can be influenced by their self-centered nature and their difficulty in empathizing with others. When a narcissist experiences sadness due to the loss of a loved one, their emotions may be intertwined with thoughts about how the loss affects them personally. They may focus on how they are impacted, how they might receive attention or sympathy from others, or how they can use the situation to their advantage.
While it is possible for a narcissist to experience genuine sadness, their emotional response may not be as deep or sincere as someone without narcissistic traits. Empathy and genuine connection with others are often challenging for narcissists, making it harder for them to fully comprehend or relate to the depth of emotions experienced by non-narcissistic individuals.
It is essential to remember that individuals vary, and not all narcissists exhibit the same behaviors or emotional responses. Some narcissists may show little to no emotional reaction when someone dies, while others may display more apparent signs of sadness, often influenced by the nature of their relationship with the deceased and their personality traits.
If you are dealing with a situation involving a narcissist or need support in coping with grief, it can be helpful to seek guidance from a mental health professional or support group. They can provide insights and strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.