A Narcissist in the Family Often Leads to Estrangement

"One of the most frequent risk factors for sibling estrangement is a family member who has narcissistic personality traits. That person may not be diagnosed with the full-blown disorder; they may simply display some of the characteristics. Whether a parent, a sibling, or an in-law, a narcissist in any role creates conflict and works against establishing loving family relationships. Here are ten behaviors that those with narcissistic personality style or disorder (NPD) may display:"

"At times, all of us display some of these traits. What matters is their duration. These key questions help to determine whether these behaviors are consistent and damaging: How long have these traits been present? Are they occasional, or signs of a deeper pattern? Does this person stir up difficulties in relationships? Can this person listen, and can they accept constructive criticism? Can they recognize their faults, admit to their role in the difficulties in a relationship, and change their behavior?"

Narcissistic family members commonly show grandiosity, entitlement, need for admiration, exploitation of others, lack of empathy, envy, and superiority. Persistent expression of these traits provokes conflict, favoritism, scapegoating, and sibling jealousy. Children of narcissistic parents frequently develop chronic self-doubt, difficulty asserting boundaries, and trouble expressing needs, often leading to adult estrangement. Narcissistic in-laws may isolate a partner to prevent challenges to abusive behavior. Determining harm requires assessing trait duration, whether the person stirs relationship difficulties, their ability to accept criticism, and their willingness to admit faults and change behavior.

Read at Psychology Today