Paranoid phenomena and pathological narcissism

Article Abstract:

Paranoid phenomena - ranging from ordinary suspicion and fear to delusion and terror - affect everyone from time to time, but when exaggerated and persistent, they signal a disturbance in the sense of self. A history of the origins and manifestations of paranoia is presented which leads to the conclusion that paranoia results from pathological narcissism. In pathological narcissism, the sense of identification with one's ego ideal (an internalized version of the ideal self which serves as a reference point for evaluating self-achievements), which normally serves as a realistic guide for hope and direction, is damaged or underdeveloped. Specifically, the psychic energy of a narcissist is overly invested in the self and insufficiently invested in the environment. The narcissist maintains an unrealistic sense of power and self-worth. Therefore, damage to or loss of either a self-object (a person viewed as containing a desirable value or quality, whose presence reflects or mirrors back self-worth), or of the ego ideal, results in disintegration anxiety (feeling lost, unanchored, and unattached to any sense of purpose or value). In a struggle to re-establish a sense of purpose and belonging, paranoia (with its attendant delusions that others are engaged in threatening plots or actions) may paradoxically supply the patient with a sense of security, since viewing others as bad and evil facilitates viewing oneself as good and worthy. In the absence of more solid ego boosters, paranoia is not easily relinquished. Therefore, therapy should be supportive and help the patient to reconnect with resources that buoy self-regard and initiative. By reconnecting with aspiration and initiative, the narcissistic patient may be able to regain a sense of will and direction which is not dependent on pointing a finger at others. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Psychological aspects, Causes of, Narcissism, Paranoid disorders, Paranoia, Paranoid personality disorder

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Psychotherapy with substance abusers: integration of psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral approaches

Article Abstract:

This article examines the effectiveness of cognitive and psychodynamic psychotherapeutic approaches when treating substance abusers. Topics addressed include the internal and external factors that motivate drug users to start treatment.

Drug addicts, Drug abusers, Cognitive therapy, Psychodynamic psychotherapy

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Making a future

Article Abstract:

This article addresses the importance of defining the future for mentally depressed patients in psychotherapy. The author discusses how the concept of the future is limited in schizophrenic and severely depressed people.

Analysis, Depression, Mental, Depression (Mood disorder), Despair

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