Malignant Narcissism — A Danger in American Politics
By
Lauro Amezcua-Patino
Malignant narcissism is a type of personality disorder in which narcissistic traits are mixed with antisocial behavior, often including aggression and sadism. Narcissists tend to have an inflated sense of self-importance and may be preoccupied with fantasies of power, success, or beauty.
They are different from sociopaths because sociopaths tend to act impulsively and do dangerous things without thinking about the consequences.
Some other differences between narcissists and sociopaths include the fact that narcissists tend to have a strong need for admiration and may become angry or upset if they do not receive it. In contrast, sociopaths tend to be more indifferent to the opinions of others. Additionally, narcissists are more preoccupied with their own appearance and status (suits, girdles, dyed hair, and spray tans). At the same time, sociopaths may be more focused on immediate gratification and thrill-seeking behavior.
Both sociopaths and narcissists use charm and manipulation to gain the trust of their victims. They then use that trust to exploit others for their personal gain. This could involve stealing, using them for sex or other favors, or even convincing them to commit crimes.
When these types of personality disorders are present in politicians, it can be very dangerous. Corruption, abuse of power, and disregard for the well-being of others become the norm. Some experts have said that malignant narcissism might be more common in certain types of leaders, like authoritarian or populist ones like Putin, Bolsonaro, and others.
In politics, malignant narcissism can manifest in several ways. Politicians with this disorder may be more likely to do things like take bribes or use their position to make money for themselves. They are also more likely to behave aggressively toward others, including their staff, colleagues, and constituents. Malignant narcissism may also make politicians more likely to do risky or dangerous things without caring about the consequences.
Much of their behavior stems from deep-seated insecurities. Because of this, they will often feel threatened by those around them who do not see the world as they do. For example, a sitting president’s blatant disregard and even denigration of military and intelligence experts during his tenure is a perfect example of this. As Commander and Chief of the most powerful military in the world, this should come as a huge red flag.
Another sign of such personality issues is the push for personal and political retribution. Other bullies in powerful positions have used these kinds of threats to punish or get back at people or groups they saw as political or personal enemies. This is the kind of behavior that dictators, not democratic leaders, use.
The most salient point concerning those in power with these traits is that they often put their desire for personal power over their elected purpose. Vladimir Putin is currently waging a public relations war within his own country. His invasion of Ukraine to “liberate” Russian speakers is quite obviously a personal power play. He has even threatened to use nukes because the reality of being seen as wrong is far worse to him than the lives being lost. This is the most dangerous thing about men like this. They will do anything to stay in power. They will say anything as well. And if you threaten, or worse, embarrass them, they will come after you and find all the weapons at their disposal. If allowed to occur, that would be the last American thing one could conceive of.
It is important to note that not all politicians exhibit traits of malignant narcissism and/or sociopathy. It is also not appropriate to diagnose someone without conducting a thorough evaluation. But it's important for voters to know the possible risks of electing leaders with these traits. Electing officials to power who do not possess a clear purpose can lead to the abuse of that power.
So, how do we Americans combat such a threat?
We can ensure our political system is fair and just by staying informed and holding politicians accountable for what they do.
Our personal tools for this are our hearts, minds, and votes—primarily our votes.
