Title: Group Egoism: Understanding, Symptoms, and Illustrations
Engaging in communal narcissism involves having an inflated self-image and seeking admiration within a group setting. This could be within a family, community, religious organization, charity, workplace, or even an online group. Individuals who display communal narcissism may come across as exceptionally helpful or supportive, but their true motive is to gain praise.
Unlike individual narcissism, the focus is on how a person functions within a social group. People with communal narcissism believe they are the most helpful, friendly, moral, or hardworking member and use their participation to gain approbation. It's crucial to note that communal narcissism is not a medical diagnosis, but rather a term used to describe a personality trait or pattern of behavior.
The idea of communal narcissism originates from a psychological theory splitting narcissistic behavior into two types: agentic and communal. In agentic narcissism, a person fulfills their need for praise by focusing on themselves as an individual, often displaying attention-seeking behaviors. Conversely, communal narcissism involves seeking praise by focusing on their role within the group—being exceptionally kind, friendly, or helpful to boost their self-image.
There isn't a defined set of signs or symptoms for communal narcissism as it's not a medical condition. However, frequent themes are unrealistic self-perception, seeking praise, and contradictory behavior. People with communal narcissism believe they are more community-minded or "prosocial" than others. In group settings, they may present their deeds as extraordinary and exaggerate their contributions to win praise. Despite their appearance, they may not be more well-liked or kinder than others, and their behavior may even intensify when they achieve the praise and admiration they desire.
When dealing with communal narcissism, it is essential to set boundaries, communicate the consequences of crossing them, and maintain a firm and clear stance. In some cases, reducing contact with the person may be necessary, especially if they hold significant influence within a group.
In the realm of mental health, understanding and addressing communal narcissism is crucial for promoting equity and well-being. This behavior, while not recognized as a psychiatric disorder, can significantly impact group dynamics and individual mental health. Individuals exhibiting communal narcissism often struggle with personality disorders, manifesting as a need for constant approval and recognition within their social groups.
