Can Narcissists Change if They Want To? Can Therapy Help? — Photo by Marija Zaric on Unsplash

There is a lot of debate surrounding the topic of narcissists and whether or not they can change. Some people believe that narcissists are simply born that can not change, while others think that therapy can help them see the error of their ways and make changes. The truth is, there is no one answer to this question. Every narcissist is different, and every case should be evaluated on an individual basis. This article will discuss the types of narcissism and explore both sides of the argument.

Types Of Narcissism

There are three main types of narcissists: the overt narcissist, the covert narcissist, and the malignant narcissist. Each has its own specific set of traits, which we will go over in this article.

Overt Narcissist

The overt narcissist is the easiest to spot because they are often very vocal about their accomplishments and how great they are. They love to be the center of attention and will do whatever it takes to ensure everyone knows their name. They are often very charming and charismatic, making them successful in many areas of their life. However, their need for attention can also be their downfall, as they are often unable to maintain healthy relationships.

Covert

The covert narcissist is not as easily spotted because they are often shyer and reserved. They may not boast about their accomplishments as much as the overt narcissist, but they still have a very high opinion of themselves. They may be more passive-aggressive in their behavior, and they may try to control those around them through manipulation.

Malignant Narcissism

The malignant narcissist is the most dangerous type because they combine the need for attention with a total lack of empathy. They are often charming and charismatic like the overt narcissist, but they use their powers to control and manipulate those around them. They have no regard for other people’s feelings and often take pleasure in hurting others. If you suspect that you or someone you know may be a narcissist, getting help from a professional as soon as possible is essential.

Narcissists Can’t Change

On the one hand, some experts believe that narcissists cannot change. This is because narcissism is considered a personality disorder, personality disorders are notoriously difficult to change, and most personality disorders are considered lifelong conditions that require ongoing treatment. So, if you’re wondering whether or not a narcissist can change, the answer may be “no.”

Narcissists Can Change

On the other hand, some experts believe that therapy can help narcissists to change. While it’s true that treatment alone is unlikely to “cure” a narcissist, it can provide them with tools and insight that they can use to make changes in their lives. For example, therapy can help a narcissist learn how to communicate better, empathize with others, and manage their own emotions. While therapy may not be able to change a narcissist overnight, it can certainly help them to make progress over time.

Conclusion

So, what’s the verdict? Can narcissists change if they want to? The answer is maybe, and it depends on the individual case. If you’re wondering whether or not therapy can help a narcissist to change, the answer is also perhaps.

If you’re wondering whether or not a loved one who is a narcissist can change, the best thing you can do is encourage them to seek therapy. Therapy may not be the final solution, but it can provide them with the tools they need to make progress over time. Ultimately, it’s up to the narcissist themselves to decide whether or not they want to make changes in their life, but you can certainly help them along the way.

Can Narcissists Change if They Want To? Can Therapy Help?