NPD often leads to isolation due to a lack of empathy and difficulty with relationships.
Treatment for NPD, which affects 1% to 2% of people, can includetalk therapyand medication.
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God Complex: A Real Diagnosis?
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A God complex is not a diagnosable disorder.
It simply describes a symptom or personality trait adopted by someone with NPD.
Because of that, the DSM-5 doesnt recognize it as its own entity.
There are two primary types of NPD: vulnerable and grandiose.
People with a God complex typically have grandiose narcissistic personality disorder.
While NPD is a diagnosis, the “God complex” phrase describes a trait consistent with it.
Most of the factors associated with thedevelopment of narcissistic personalitydisorder occur during childhood development.
One of the most notable examples would be surgeons and other doctors.
NPD can be inheritable within the context of a person’s environment and individual biology.
This sense of superiority means they may engage in destructive behaviors that lead to damaging consequences for others.
However, they’ll likely blame others for any issues arising from their behavior.
People with a God complex also like to control every situation.
They’ll usemanipulative tacticsto get what they want and may become aggressive or use force in their pursuits.
How Can You Tell if Someone Has a God Complex?
It can be challenging to spot a God complex unless you are aware of NPD-like behaviors and personality traits.
They can help you see the scenario more clearly and recognize abusive situations.
However, research has found that their emotional intelligence is used to manipulate others instead of understanding.
A lack of empathy makes authentic communication difficult.
Effects on Self-Esteem
High self-esteem has its healthy benefits.
Therapeutic approaches include:
Your healthcare provider can help you to connect with a mental health professional for care.
You also can consider group therapy, couples counseling, and other options.
Summary
A God complex, on its own, is not a mental health diagnosis.
The traits are similar to those seen in narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).
Genetics may play a role.
Harvard Health Publishing.Narcissistic personality disorder: Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments.
Weinberg I, Ronningstam E.Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Progress in Understanding and Treatment.Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ).
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McCluskey MC.Revitalizing Alfred Adler: An echo for equality.Clin Soc Work J. Weinberg I, Ronningstam E, Ravichandran C, Gunderson JG.Can Patients With Narcissistic Personality Disorder Change?
A Case Series.J Nerv Ment Dis.
2024 Jul 1;212(7):392-397. doi:10.1097/NMD.0000000000001777
