Rapper Jay Z covers the most recent issue of XXl magazine, according to a loyal reader who sent this cover. This reminds me that I promised another loyal reader to post the definition of a narcissist:
According to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), narcissism is defined as “a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.”
The narcissist is described as turning inward for gratification rather than depending on others and as being excessively preoccupied with issues of personal adequacy, power, and prestige. Narcissistic personality disorder is closely linked to self-centeredness. It is also colloquially referred to as “the God complex.”
True narcissists (like Barack Obama, Jay Z, Jermaine Dupri and Sean Combs, for example) will display 5 or more of the following behaviors and character traits:
- Has a grandiose sense of self-importance
- Requires excessive admiration
- Has a sense of entitlement
- Is interpersonally exploitative
- Lacks empathy
- Is often envious of others or believes others are envious of him or her
- Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes
- Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty or ideal love (megalomania)
- Believes they are “special” and can only be understood by, or should associate with, people (or institutions) who are also “special” or of high status
Just about all celebrities, and people who seek the limelight tend to be narcissistic to some degree.
