Waking Up to Narcissism

Waking Up to Narcissism


Part 2 - From Grandiose to Vulnerable With a Touch of Emotional Immaturity - Exploring Attachment Styles

March 11, 2024

Part 2 of Tony’s dive into how narcissism and emotional immaturity contribute to the different attachment styles that we show up with in adulthood. Continuing to read from the article “Narcissistic Personality and Attachment,” https://www.attachmentproject.com/psychology/narcissistic-personality/ Tony delves into the significance of secure attachment and its impact on children's development and adult relationships. The discussion begins with a nostalgic look at the importance of having a supportive figure during childhood, highlighting how a 'superhero' figure can influence one's ability to trust and form healthy relationships. The conversation then transitions into how those without secure attachments in childhood might struggle with narcissistic traits or emotional immaturity in adulthood. Tony explores different attachment styles, including avoidant, anxious, and disorganized, and their connection to narcissistic behaviors and traits. By emphasizing the role of self-reflection, understanding intrinsic values, and committed action through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Tony offers a pathway toward overcoming challenges related to emotional immaturity and narcissism. The episode is a comprehensive look at how early attachment styles contribute to adult relationship dynamics, with insights on possible paths for healing and growth.


00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:09 The Concept of a Superhero in Childhood

02:06 The Importance of Secure Attachment

02:36 The Role of Parents in Providing Secure Attachment

03:28 The Impact of Secure Attachment in Adult Relationships

05:08 The Power of Vulnerability in Relationships

05:53 Understanding Different Attachment Styles

08:33 The Journey of Emotional Growth and Awakening

15:51 The Connection Between Narcissism and Attachment Styles

16:29 The Impact of Overindulgence and Authoritarian Parenting on Narcissism

23:31 The Role of Abuse in the Development of Narcissism

29:39 The Complex Relationship Between Narcissism and Attachment Styles

30:45 Understanding Anxious Attachment and Vulnerable Narcissism

31:14 Real-Life Example: Jamie's Case

32:31 Disorganized Attachment Style and Vulnerable Narcissism

32:52 The Role of Approval Seeking and Fear in Narcissism

33:23 Exploring Treatment Approaches for Narcissism

33:43 Disorganized Attachment and Vulnerable Narcissism: Common Ground and Differences

36:26 Case Study: Jordan and Casey

38:23 Avoidant Attachment Style and the Grandiose Narcissist

39:49 Similarities and Differences between Avoidant Attachment and Grandiose Narcissism

50:52 Treatment Approaches for Narcissism and Emotional Maturity

52:22 Wrapping Up: The Complexities of Narcissism and Attachment Styles


Available NOW Tony's "Magnetic Marriage Mini-Course" only $25. https://magneticmarriage.mykajabi.com/magnetic-marriage-mini-course


Find all the latest links to podcasts, courses, Tony's newsletter, and more at https://linktr.ee/virtualcouch


And follow Tony on the Virtual Couch YouTube channel for a sneak preview of his upcoming podcast "Murder on the Couch," where True Crime meets therapy, co-hosted with his daughter Sydney. You can watch a pre-release clip here https://youtu.be/-RkRq8SrQy0


Subscribe to Tony's latest podcast, "Waking Up to Narcissism Q&A - Premium Podcast," on the Apple Podcast App. 


https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waking-up-to-narcissism-q-a/id1667287384


Go to http://tonyoverbay.com/workshop to sign up for Tony's "Magnetize Your Marriage" virtual workshop. The cost is only $19, and you'll learn the top 3 things you can do NOW to create a Magnetic Marriage. 


You can learn more about Tony's pornography recovery program, The Path Back, by visiting http://pathbackrecovery.com And visit http://tonyoverbay.com and sign up to receive updates on upcoming programs and podcasts.


Tony mentioned a product that he used to take out all of the "uh's" and "um's" that, in his words, "must be created by wizards and magic!" because it's that good! To learn more about Descript, click here https://descript.com?lmref=bSWcEQ