Rethinking Narcissism: A Path to Healing and Growth
Episode Overview
Caroline's unique approach to defining narcissism and her reasons for not working with the clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder Insights into the chameleonic nature of narcissists and the challenges faced by survivors in seeking validation and belief Discussion on the protective parts theory and the role of trauma therapy in understanding and addressing narcissistic behavior Empowerment of survivors to focus on their own healing journey and shift from post-traumatic stress to post-traumatic growth The mission to re-envision narcissism from a trauma-informed and Internal Family Systems lens
The word narcissist is really an umbrella term for behavior. It's a behavioral term. Now I work obviously in the trauma field and I work with a parts therapy called internal family systems. Now internal family systems is an evidence-based parts therapy that works on the premise that we all have a sense of self.
Have you ever wondered why a narcissist can seem so charming in public but turn into a different person behind closed doors? In this episode, Caroline Strawson takes you on a journey through her unique perspective on narcissism. She shares her personal experiences with narcissistic abuse, revealing how these individuals can fool almost anyone into believing they're not a narcissist. This episode questions the traditional clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder and offers a fresh, trauma-informed viewpoint.
Caroline dives deep into the complexities of identifying narcissistic behavior, explaining why healthcare professionals often miss the mark. She also discusses the importance of finding validation and support when dealing with a narcissist. By focusing on trauma therapy and the protective parts theory, Caroline provides valuable insights into how survivors can shift from post-traumatic stress to post-traumatic growth. If you're struggling to understand or cope with narcissistic abuse, this episode is a must-listen.
Caroline's compassionate approach offers hope and practical advice for anyone looking to heal and thrive. Tune in to discover how redefining narcissism can pave the way for a more accurate and nuanced understanding, ultimately leading to a healthier, more empowered life.