Brattyness May Be Narcissism

Would you know a Narcissist if you met one? You will find them around your town, on the sports field, and even in your own home. You probably know many kids who you consider to be ‘bratty.’ Don’t expect their parents to do anything about their bad behavior because the brats I am talking about are now adults. Big adult brats, but not necessarily grown ups. rnWhat causes narcissism? Narcissistic Personality Disorder, that’s what. Do you remember that girl at school who stole things, or started rumours (about those least able to defend themselves) but always got away with it because she always charmed or connived her way out of any situation? We all remember kids like that don’t we? One of the hallmarks of a narcissist is blaming others. rnIf you ever wonder what happens to brats who turn into adults before ever learning good social skills, well ...With a good education they may end up in charge of other people’s resources, and possibly run an otherwise healthy company into the ground, or cause a nation’s financial ruin. The less educated narcissist men; the ones who use their charm and manipulation to work the system, are more likely to end up in jail. Narcisisstic women, once they are too old to seduce and exploit men any longer, typically end up dying alone; rejected and despised by all.rnBrats bring their narcissism and awful social skills right along into adulthood. They are brash and blame the very people they abuse for causing their actions. “I couldn’t tell you I took the money out of your purse. You would have gotten hysterical. I can’t even talk to you.” Or (after they have yet again exploited you in any number of ways), “I can never talk to you. You never listen to what I want.” rnI am so familiar with these brats’ lines because my husband Steve had all the signs and symptoms of narcissism too. It wasn’t easy. It took a lot of dedication, devotion and energy to deal with his mental abuse, but I finally figured out a way to navigate through the rocky terrain of Steve’s destructive personality disorder. Thankfully, after a lot of work and self awareness on my part, we both helped Steve grow up. rnKim Cooper is the author of “Back from the Looking Glass” and “The Love Safety Net Workbook,” e-books about healing an abusive relationship. She and her husband Steve co-host The Love Safety Net talk radio show and website at www.thelovesafetynet.com.