narcissism and alcoholism: When 2 Evils Meet

Alcohol acts as a lubricant, making the vulnerable narcissist feel more at ease in social situations that may otherwise seem overwhelming. Alcohol can temporarily alleviate the vulnerable narcissist’s feelings of inadequacy, giving them a false sense of confidence that negates their niggling self-doubt. Vulnerable narcissists, on the other hand, tend to be more realistic about alcohol-related problems, such as passing out or feeling sick, and more willing to discuss them.

Though it is against our prediction, it isn’t completely surprising that vulnerable narcissists expect to experience problems. An overall mean score of narcissism was calculated for the two subscales (i.e., grandiose and vulnerable narcissism). Internal consistency in the current study was alpha of .84 for the grandiose narcissism subscale and .79 for the vulnerable narcissism subscale. Drinking when consequences are obviously damaging or will cause major losses, are both signs of severe alcohol abuse. In some cases, the person can fail to recognize how drinking is negatively affecting their life, and accuse others of being extreme.

Loved one’s eating disorder

A person suffering from narcissism and alcoholism very likely has fragile self-esteem, and it can be difficult for them to even admit that they have a problem. If they relapse, they may feel like a failure and can be quick to blame others. In addition to these symptoms, people with a narcissistic personality disorder may also have difficulty holding down long-term relationships due to their lack of empathy and disturbed interpersonal dynamics.

Entitlement is a way to justify not just drinking but also feeling, which can fuel not taking responsibility or coming out of denial. Taking responsibility for actions and behaviors would mean moving out of denial and not only having to admit the truth but becoming fully responsible for it. If they fully acknowledge their drinking problem they know they can no longer justify their drinking. This prevents them from seeking help, and families very often have to contact a professional interventionist for resolution. Dr. Jenni Jacobsen is a licensed social worker and behavioral health consultant.

Alcohol misuse vs. alcohol use disorder

A 2018 study found that people with personality disorders were more likely to have AUD at some point in their lives. A 2018 study examined the link between narcissism and alcohol use based on a survey of 345 college students. It found that narcissism was a predictor of alcohol consumption and alcohol-related problems.

We are here to provide assistance in locating an Ark Behavioral Health treatment center that may meet your treatment needs. Sian Ferguson is a freelance health and cannabis writer based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about empowering readers to take care of their mental and physical health through science-based, empathetically delivered information. Read more about living with a person who has AUD and managing a relationship with someone who has NPD. If your alcohol use is severe, you’ll likely need to go to an inpatient facility so that you can safely withdraw from alcohol. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, so it’s important to seek medical help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eating Disorders

You’ve joined your colleagues for a drink after work, and as the night progresses, your narcissistic boss’s behavior becomes increasingly intolerable. Others are covert narcissism and alcoholism viewed as either enabling their drinking or as potential threats to their freedom to drink. Narcissists don’t enter a room saying Hi, Im Jack, Im a narcissist.