Narcissism is defined as an individual’s exaggerated sense of self-importance, a high need for admiration, and insensitivity to the feelings of others (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). When evaluated from the perspective of clinical psychology, narcissistic traits range from normal personality characteristics to pathological personality disorders. Friendship relationships, in particular, are among the most challenging areas for narcissistic individuals because these relationships are based on mutual empathy, understanding, and emotional support. In this article, we will examine the effects of narcissism on friendships from a clinical psychology perspective.
Individuals with narcissistic personality traits generally want to be the center of attention, be approved of, and be admired in friendships (Campbell & Foster, 2007). For these individuals, relationships serve as a mirroring mechanism; in other words, they validate their self-worth through the reactions of others. Therefore, friendships with narcissistic individuals are often superficial and one-sided. The needs or feelings of the other person are considered secondary, and the relationship becomes a tool for the narcissist to feel good.
Research shows that narcissistic individuals prioritize external traits such as social status, success, or popularity when choosing friends (Zlatan, 2019). For these individuals, a friend may serve merely as a means to enhance their social image. Although they may initially appear attractive and confident, over time they reveal a lack of empathy and intolerance to criticism (Miller, Lynam, Hyatt, & Campbell, 2017). They may develop defense mechanisms such as anger, contempt, or manipulation, especially when faced with criticism.
Within the framework of clinical psychology, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a condition characterized by rigid and enduring behavioral patterns, where the individual suffers functional impairment in various areas of life (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). However, not every narcissistic tendency qualifies as NPD. In modern society, social media platforms can contribute to an increase in narcissistic tendencies among individuals (Campbell & Foster, 2007). This may lead to empathy deficits, superficial interactions, and self-centered behavior, particularly in youth friendships.
A person involved in a friendship with a narcissistic individual may over time feel emotionally drained, devalued, or manipulated. Ronningstam (2005) notes that relationships with narcissists are often unstable, and personal boundaries are frequently violated. This can damage the self-esteem of the other party and may lead to long-term depressive symptoms. In clinical interventions, therapists working with narcissistic individuals are advised to adopt a careful, patient, and boundary-setting approach.
Narcissistic individuals are often reluctant to seek therapy because they do not want to acknowledge having problems (Miller et al., 2017). At this point, the therapist’s role is to enhance the individual’s self-awareness and support them in developing healthier relational patterns. Strengthening the empathy skills of narcissistic individuals is especially important for resolving relationship problems.
Individuals need to develop certain psychological skills to cope with narcissism in friendships. These skills include setting healthy boundaries, recognizing emotional needs, and expressing relationship imbalances openly. Those who wish to maintain a relationship with a narcissistic friend may need to preserve their own psychological resilience and distance themselves if necessary (Ronningstam, 2005).
As a result, narcissism can have profound effects on friendship relationships. The lack of empathy and self-centered behaviors exhibited by narcissistic individuals can render these relationships unstable, fragile, and insecure. Clinical psychology provides frameworks for understanding the dynamics of such personality traits and guiding individuals toward forming healthier, emotionally supportive relationships. Because healthy friendships are built on mutual understanding and emotional reciprocity, the impact of narcissism on these bonds should not be overlooked.
References
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American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
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Campbell, W. K., & Foster, C. A. (2007). The narcissistic self: Background, an extended agency model, and ongoing controversies. In C. Sedikides & S. J. Spencer (Eds.), The self: Frontiers in social psychology (pp. 115–138). Psychology Press.
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Miller, J. D., Lynam, D. R., Hyatt, C. S., & Campbell, W. K. (2017). Controversies in narcissism. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 13, 291–315. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-032816-045244
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Ronningstam, E. (2005). Identifying and understanding the narcissistic personality. Oxford University Press.
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Zlatan, K. (2019). Narcissism in friendships: The balancing act of admiration and exploitation. Journal of Interpersonal Psychology, 45(2), 204–221.