Making Distinctions Between Narcissists and Sociopaths Will Serve You Well

Making Distinctions Between Narcissists and Sociopaths Will Serve You Well
By Linda Martinez-Lewi Ph.D.

The narcissistic personality has become pervasive in today's society. We frequently find them in top tier positions in business, government, entertainment and various professional power centers. The sociopath functions outside of society but his criminal acts have a tragic negative effect on everyone. The narcissist creates an elaborate image of perfection that brings him praise and admiration. At the highest levels the narcissist is charismatic and easily finds followers who will fulfill his voracious ego needs. High-level narcissists fool a lot of people, displaying a magnetic charm that is irresistible. Unlike the narcissist, the sociopath (anti-social personality) doesn't care one wit about the impression he is making. He lives in his own world, does what he wants, and detests and looks down on others. People are foolish pawns designed to be trapped in his web. The sociopath is an exploiter par excellence. The sociopath can be charming and seductive when he turns on his bright lights to get exactly what he wants when he wants it. But this panache is a thin, short-lived ploy.

Part of the narcissistic image is the impression that his spouse and family will make upon others. The narcissist often presents himself as a devoted spouse and parent, willing to do anything for them. The narcissist displays a false empathy in which he pretends that he can put himself in someone else's place. The sociopath, completely lacking in empathy, is noted by a total disregard for his family, including children and pets. He/she often puts them in physical danger through neglect, recklessness, physical assault, and chronic criminal behavior. Narcissists do not have a well developed conscience and often go over the line both ethically and legally. But they make sure that they don't get caught. Narcissists keep their physical aggressiveness in check because they have so much riding on their elaborate images. Sociopaths have histories of perpetrating physical violence from early childhood, through adolescence and adulthood.

Narcissists are always selling themselves. High-level narcissists are frequently very successful; one might even think they were born with a money gene. Most high-level narcissists are constantly focusing on new ways to increase their wealth and worldly stature. Some white collar sociopaths (forgers, counterfeiters, pyramid schemers) avoid arrest and conviction through their cunning and stealth. The sociopath goes after money but the route he takes is frequently violent. Often the sociopath turns deadly, committing violent crimes (robbery, rape, physical assault, murder). Sociopaths are often arrested and sent to prison numerous times throughout their lives. The sociopath is physically and psychologically dangerous to most of those he encounters. He leads a violent, criminal life, devoid of conscience, compassion or human warmth. The narcissist wreaks a lot of human havoc in his personal and professional life.

Both of these personality disorders leave enormous swaths of human devastation behind. Knowing and understanding who you are dealing with, will enable you to protect yourself and maintain psychological balance.

Linda Martinez-Lewi holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is a licensed marriage family therapist. She has extensive clinical training in narcissistic and borderline disorders. Dr. Linda Martinez-Lewi is the author of the book "Freeing Yourself From the Narcissist in Your Life."

Dr. Martinez-Lewi has worked for many years with patients experiencing psychological problems as a result of personal and professional relationships with narcissistic personality disorders. She has clinical experience treating patients suffering from childhood trauma, anxiety disorders, and depression.

Dr. Martinez-Lewi has been interviewed on numerous radio talk shows throughout the country.

Visit her website at: http://www.thenarcissistinyourlife.com

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