[fintstone]

Originally Posted by notfarnow

The problem is that people throw the term narcissist around like the word "*********", so the meaning gets diluted.

If you've ever dealt with a real, diagnosed narcissist then you'd know it's real. And the diagnosis is not to serve the person afflicted... they are not self aware enough to ever understand. It's a diagnosis that serves those who have to live with them and negotiate boundaries

Absolutely...but in the context of how it is tossed around in this forum...to describe folks that hold different opinons...it is far from that (and dilutes the meaning exactly as you describe).

Diagnosing mental illness (especially by a layman without training) on the internet is simply seen as a debate tactic here.

As mentioned earlier, according to experts, narcissism can be healthy. Healthy narcissism ensures that a person develops a realistic, positive self-image, self-esteem and operates in their own self-interest (coupled with challenging but realistic goals). In general, healthy narcissism actually aids in relationship building and in maintaining long-term relationships.

To me, a narcissist is that genius who kneels during the National Anthem and wears socks that are covered with little pigs in cop uniforms. It is obviously all about him (whether the asshat fits the definition or not). Obviously, I am qualified to make that diagnosis...as this is the internet...and everyone is cooler and smarter here that they are in real life. Why not me?