The article explores the relationship between narcissism and perfectionism, highlighting that narcissists often view the world in black-and-white terms—believing others are either perfect or worthless. This mindset reflects their fragile ego and sense of entitlement. Their perfectionism serves as a mask to gain admiration, rather than as a blueprint for approval, as seen in obsessive-compulsive individuals. Consequently, narcissists struggle with accountability and often utilize distorted thinking to maintain their perceived superiority, thus perpetuating a cycle of self-deception and defensive behavior.
Narcissists engage in black-and-white thinking, believing that others are either perfect or worthless. Defensiveness in narcissism is a protection against deep-seated shame.
Perfectionism, at bottom, is a means of coping with a fragile ego. Founded on black-and-white thinking, or the belief that things are either good or bad to be precise.
Whereas the obsessive-compulsive individual uses perfectionism as a blueprint to win others over and gain approval, narcissistic individuals utilize perfection as a mask to gain admirers.
Narcissism adds a layer to that perpetual shame in the form of self-deception, which the obsessive compulsive is often unable to do.
Collection
[
|
...
]