Misdiagnosing Narcissism - Asperger s Disorder
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Misdiagnosing Narcissism as Asperger's Disorder
Overview
Asperger's Disorder is frequently mistaken for Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). While traits of Asperger's can appear as early as age 3, narcissism typically cannot be diagnosed until adolescence.
Key Differences
Similarities
Both Asperger's and NPD involve self-centeredness and focus on limited interests. Individuals with these conditions often struggle with social and occupational interactions and may lack conversational skills. Both groups exhibit restricted body language and poor interpretation of nonverbal cues.
Distinctions
Despite surface similarities, the gap between Asperger's and narcissism is significant. The narcissist can adeptly shift between social competence and dysfunction. Social withdrawal for a narcissist is a choice, driven by arrogance and a lack of interest in cultivating relationships unless they offer Narcissistic Supply.
In contrast, Asperger's patients yearn for social connection?"seeking friendships, marriage, and family?"but often fail to achieve these due to limited social skills. Their emotional expression is hindered, and they frequently lack awareness of others' needs and feelings, which leads to perceptions of coldness or indifference.
Behavioral Patterns
Narcissists often attain high social or professional status but are prone to dramatic failures due to their exploitative nature. They use language as a tool to manipulate and obtain Narcissistic Supply, displaying exceptional communication skills when it suits them.
Asperger's patients, however, may be verbose or oddly silent, focusing narrowly on specific topics. They struggle with conversational rules and cannot easily read nonverbal cues, often choosing solitary activities to avoid rejection. Their intense focus serves as a coping mechanism for emotional pain, contrasting sharply with the narcissist's approach of exclusion and devaluation.
Emotional and Linguistic Dynamics
Both groups can experience depression due to perceived slights. However, Asperger's patients are at greater risk for self-harm and suicidal thoughts. Language use further differentiates the two: while narcissists use language strategically, Asperger's patients may lack conversational fluidity and awareness of social norms.
Additional Resources
1. McDowell, Maxson J. (2002) The Image of the Mother's Eye: Autism and Early Narcissistic Injury.
2. Benis, Anthony - Toward Self & Sanity: On the Genetic Origins of the Human Character.
3. Stringer, Kathi (2003) An Object Relations Approach to Understanding Unusual Behaviors and Disturbances.
4. James Robert Brasic, MD, MPH (2003) Pervasive Developmental Disorder: Asperger Syndrome.
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