Special Holiday Announcement
As the holiday season approaches, I want to thank you for your ongoing support and share my gratitude for your time and engagement each week. The holidays can be a mix of joy and challenges, especially when complex family dynamics arise, so please know you’re not alone—I’m here if you need support. Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to bring more expert guests to the podcast to offer fresh perspectives on narcissism and relationships, helping us explore diverse approaches to these complex dyn...
24 Joulu 20242min
Two Powerful Strategies to Protect Yourself in Narcissistic Relations
In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined by therapist and author Crystal DeSantis. Together we explore the complexities of navigating relationships with narcissistic partners. Crystal talks about the importance of self-awareness in understanding relationship dynamics and creating safety as a foundation for healthy connections. We also dive into why many individuals seek emotional connection but struggle to achieve it, noting that true connection requires both vulnerability and sk...
18 Joulu 202429min
Borderline Personality Disorder and The Hidden Danger of Abandonment
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and its similarities with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). The conversation explores the emotional struggles faced by individuals with BPD, particularly their fear of abandonment and the impact on their communication styles. We contrast the literal mode of communication often seen in BPD with the representational mode that fosters deeper connections and self-reflection. Finally, insights int...
11 Joulu 202427min
How Narcissists Create Loyalty Conflicts
In this episode, we explore the complex relationship between parental alienation and narcissism, focusing on how one parent may manipulate a child to reject the other, creating loyalty conflicts and psychological manipulation. We discuss how these dynamics can foster codependency between the child and the alienating parent, who may project unresolved anger and create a polarized view of the other parent. The episode also delves into the narcissistic fantasies driving these behaviors, impactin...
4 Joulu 202416min
Covert Narcissism – Holiday Bonus Replay
This week on The Narcissism Decoder, we’re revisiting our most popular episode - which is on covert narcissism. Originally recorded during the podcast’s early days, the sound quality reflects our humble beginnings but remains clear and full of valuable insights. Whether you’re a new listener or returning for a fresh perspective, this episode offers a rich exploration of covert narcissism, with practical examples and guidance for navigating these challenging relationships. Take this opportunit...
27 Marras 202440min
Borderline Personality Disorder: Exploring Ego Weakness and Relationship Challenges
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), exploring its emotional impact, characteristics, and the critical differences between BPD and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). We discuss the role of self-image, emotional reactivity, and mentalization in individuals with BPD, emphasizing the importance of understanding these dynamics for effective treatment. The conversation also highlights strategies for emotional regulation and the significanc...
20 Marras 202431min
Understanding Narcissistic Relationships and How to Protect Yourself
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of narcissistic relationships, examining the emotional dynamics that often unfold. We focus on the concept of omnipotent incorporation, where narcissists attempt to control or merge with their partners, denying them individuality. Through personal anecdotes and clinical examples, we illustrate the emotional impact of being in a relationship with a narcissist. Finally, we offer insights on navigating these challenging dynamics, emphasizing ...
14 Marras 202431min
Confronting Pathological Narcissism: A Psychodynamic Perspective
In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, we delve into the complexities of pathological narcissism, focusing on the grandiose self-structure and its origins. We explore how caregivers’ excessive praise and validation shape this self-concept, leading to a fragile identity that oscillates between superiority and feelings of inadequacy. Through clinical examples, we illustrate the limitations of consistent emotional support and the pitfalls of relying on admiration instead of genuine connectio...
6 Marras 202425min
