\”Did you hear my covert narcissism I disguise as altruism like some kind of congressman?\”
Are you familiar with those phrases? Yes, swifties, I got you!
So what does it mean? No worries, keep scrolling down to know the answer :))
Admit it, when we hear the word \’narcissism\’ most of us would automatically be thinking about a person who is self-centered, arrogant, and usually an attention seeker. But just like most of personality disorders, narcissism exists on a spectrum. It means this disorder includes a range of linked conditions which makes it difficult for individuals to recognize narcissistic traits within themselves and others. However, experts split narcissism personality disorder (NPD) into two subtypes; grandiose narcissism (also known as overt narcissism) and vulnerable narcissism (also known as covert narcissism; introverted narcissism; fragile narcissism). Yes, vulnerable. This term tends to be used by the researchers as people with this subtype of NPD appear to lack self-confidence.
A 2018 study found that people with overt narcissism tended to have higher levels of self-esteem, while those with covert narcissism had lower scores. People with overt narcissism are typically extroverted, bold, and attention-seeking. While the covert subtype is less obvious, they may come across as shy, withdrawn, or self-deprecating. However, they will still be self-absorbed and believe that they are better than other people.
Carder Stout, a Los Angeles-based psychologist explained that covert types are narcissists in disguise. He also said that covert narcissist believe adamantly in their own inflated self-importance and intelligence, yet they do not reveal it willingly and are also marked by insecurity, depression, and anxiety.
Okay, now we got the understanding about covert narcissism. How about altruism?
Based on APA (American Psychological Association), altruism is an apparently unselfish behavior that provides benefit to others at some cost to the individual. In humans, it covers a wide range of behaviors, including volunteerism and martyrdom, but the degree to which such behaviors are legitimately without egoistic motivation is subject to debate.
Covert narcissism disguise as altruism– the covert narcissist that may be doing good things to other people for praise, admiration or just to get ahead in life.
This type of people can be called as \”Altruistic Narcissist\”. Altruistic narcissist is a person who excessively helps others because they have a strong need to be needed and appreciated. This type of narcissist is often found in helping professions such as healthcare, teaching, or social work. Altruistic narcissists often feel empty and worthless unless they are doing something to help others. This can lead to them becoming codependent on the people they are helping.
Moreover, researchers have found that altruistic narcissists are more prone to Machiavellianism, a personality trait characterized by manipulation and a lack of empathy. This means that they may use their helping behavior to control or take advantage of other people.
In conclusion, covert narcissism disguised as altruism most likely talking about an altruistic narcissist who cares about others and wants to help but also has a strong sense of self-importance. As Dr Albers said, instead of coming from a genuine place of wanting to help, altruistic narcissist may be doing these things to seek attention and gratitude and appear as a really great person.
If you are interested to know more about the topic, you can check the sources below:
What Is A Covert Narcissist? How to Understand This Personality Disorder
Signs of Covert Narcissism
What Is Covert Narcisissm?
What Is An Altruist Narcissist? Tips to Deal
The Bright, The Dark, and The Blue Face of Narcissism
APA Dictionary of Psychology
Tinggalkan Balasan