Rethinking Narcissism: Summary Review
This is a summary review of Rethinking Narcissism containing key details about the book.
What is Rethinking Narcissism About?
"Rethinking Narcissism" by Craig Malkin is a book that explores the topic of narcissism and the different ways it can manifest in people's lives. The book provides a nuanced understanding of the condition and offers insights into how to recognize and deal with it, both in others and in oneself.
In Rethinking Narcissism readers will learn that there's far more to narcissism than its reductive invective would imply. The truth is that we all fall on a spectrum somewhere between utter selflessness on the one side, and arrogance and grandiosity on the other. A healthy middle exhibits a strong sense of self. On the far end lies sociopathy.
Summary Points & Takeaways from Rethinking Narcissism
Some key summary points and takeaways from the book include:
* Understanding Narcissism: The author provides a comprehensive definition of what constitutes narcissism, as well as its different forms and levels of severity.
* The Spectrum of Narcissism: The book explains that there is a wide spectrum of narcissistic traits and that not everyone with some narcissistic traits is a full-blown narcissist.
* The Development of Narcissism: The book describes how narcissistic traits can develop in early childhood and the factors that can contribute to the development of the condition, such as childhood trauma and abuse, a lack of attention and validation, and overindulgence.
* The Impact of Narcissism: The book highlights the negative impact that narcissistic behavior can have on relationships and personal growth. It also explains how it can create a vicious cycle of frustration and disappointment for those affected by it.
* Dealing with Narcissism: The author offers practical tips and advice for dealing with narcissistic behavior in others, such as setting healthy boundaries, avoiding getting pulled into their drama, and focusing on one's own well-being. The book also provides guidance on how to recognize and manage narcissistic tendencies in oneself.
* Overall, "Rethinking Narcissism" provides a comprehensive and accessible exploration of this complex and often misunderstood condition. The author's insights and advice can help readers gain a deeper understanding of narcissism and develop more effective ways to manage and cope with it.
Who is the author of Rethinking Narcissism?
Dr. Craig Malkin is an author, clinical psychologist, and lecturer for Harvard Medical School with two decades of experience helping individuals, couples, and families. His articles, advice, and insights on relationships have appeared in newspapers and magazines such as Time, the New York Times, The Sunday Times (London), Psychology Today, and Women’s Health, as well as countless other magazines and websites.
Book details
- Print length: 256 pages
- Genre: Psychology, Nonfiction, Self Help
What are the chapters in Rethinking Narcissism?
Chapter 1 Rethinking Narcissism: Old Assumptions, New Ideas
Chapter 2 Confusion and Controversy: How Narcissism Became a Dirty Word and We Found an Epidemic
Chapter 3 From 0 to 10: Understanding the Spectrum
Chapter 4 The Narcissism Test: How Narcissistic Are You?
Chapter 5 Root Causes: The Making of Echoists and Narcissists
Chapter 6 Echoism and Narcissism: From Bad to Worse
Chapter 7 Warning Signs: Staying Alert for Narcissists
Chapter 8 Change and Recovery: Dealing with Lovers, Family, and Friends
Chapter 9 Coping and Thriving: Dealing with Colleagues and Bosses
Chapter 10 Advice for Parents: Raising a Confident, Caring Child
Chapter 11 SoWe: The Healthy Use of Social Media
Chapter 12 A Passionate Life: The Ultimate Gift of Healthy Narcissism
What is a good quote from Rethinking Narcissism?
Top Quote: "You have a right to your disappointment. If you share your needs and feelings and it actually drives the person away, then you can’t be happy in the relationship. The solution isn’t to slide down the spectrum and become Echo. Recognize self-blame for what it is: a powerful fear that you’ll lose love if you ask for what you want. It keeps you stuck in the wrong relationship, with someone who needs you to bury your needs.” (Meaning) - Rethinking Narcissism Quotes, Craig Malkin
What do critics say?
Here's what one of the prominent reviewers had to say about the book: “A gripping and sometimes terrifying book that will make you look anew at your spouse, your parents, your children, your friends, your enemies, your fellow workers and - perhaps most pertinently - your reflection in the mirror.” — The Daily Mail (UK), "Book of the Week"
* The editor of this summary review made every effort to maintain information accuracy, including any published quotes, chapters, or takeaways. If you're interested in furthering your personal growth, you may want to explore my list of favorite self-improvement books. These books, which have had a significant impact on my life, are carefully curated and come with summaries and key lessons.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
