Author Archives: Shervan K Shahhian, LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, The Most Comprehensive Online Library Regarding Mental Health, Psychology and Parapsychology in the World.

Doctored Degree in Clinical Psychology (PSYD) (ABD) All But Dissertation, a Masters (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology, a Bachelor's Degree (B.A.) in Psychology, a Associate Degree (AA) in Liberal Arts with an emphases in Psychology, Certification in Anger Management, Certification in MRT-Moral Reconation Therapy®, Certification in Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Certification in Advanced Hypnotherapy.

Chronic seeking of Admiration and Narcissism, the connection:

Chronic seeking of Admiration and Narcissism, the connection:

Chronic seeking of admiration and narcissism are often interconnected. Narcissistic personality traits or narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) involve a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Here’s how the chronic seeking of admiration and narcissism are connected:

Need for Validation: Individuals with narcissistic traits have an excessive need for validation and admiration from others. They seek constant approval and praise to bolster their fragile self-esteem.

Grandiosity: Narcissistic individuals often have an inflated sense of self-importance and a belief that they are unique and superior to others. The chronic seeking of admiration serves to maintain this grandiose self-image.

Lack of Empathy: Narcissists typically have difficulty understanding or empathizing with the feelings and needs of others. The admiration they seek is primarily focused on their own needs, with little regard for the feelings of those around them.

Vulnerability to Criticism: Despite their outward confidence, narcissists are often sensitive to criticism. The constant seeking of admiration serves as a defense mechanism against perceived threats to their self-worth.

Manipulation: The chronic seeking of admiration can lead to manipulative behavior to achieve their desired outcome. Narcissists may use charm, flattery, or manipulation to gain the admiration they crave.

Relationship Dynamics: In interpersonal relationships, narcissists may exploit others to meet their own needs. They may form relationships based on the admiration they receive rather than genuine connection or empathy.

Shallow Relationships: The focus on seeking admiration can result in shallow relationships, as narcissists may prioritize their own needs over building deep and meaningful connections with others.

It’s important to note that while some level of narcissistic traits is common, a diagnosed Narcissistic Personality Disorder represents a more severe and pervasive pattern of behavior that can significantly impact a person’s functioning and relationships. Professional evaluation and treatment may be necessary for individuals with NPD to address these patterns and improve their overall well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

Navigating grief complexities and healing after a major loss:

Navigating grief complexities and healing after a major loss:

Grieving is a complex process, and everyone experiences it differently. While I’m here to provide support and general information, If you’re struggling with grief, consider reaching out to a mental health professional, counselor, or support group.

That said, here are some general suggestions that might help you navigate grief and begin the healing process:

Allow Yourself to Grieve: It’s essential to acknowledge and accept your emotions. Grieving is a natural response to loss, and suppressing these feelings can hinder the healing process.

Seek Support: Connect with friends, family, or support groups. Sharing your feelings with others can provide comfort and understanding. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

Professional Help: Consider talking to a therapist or counselor who specializes in grief and loss. They can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific situation.

Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Ensure you’re getting enough rest, eating healthily, and engaging in activities that bring you comfort and joy.

Create Rituals: Establishing rituals or memorial activities can help you honor and remember the person you’ve lost. This can provide a sense of connection.

Express Your Feelings: Find healthy ways to express your emotions. This might include journaling, art, music, or any other creative outlets that resonate with you.

Give Yourself Time: Grieving is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and understand that healing doesn’t happen overnight.

Remember the Positive Memories: Focus on the positive memories and moments you shared with the person you lost. Celebrate their life and the impact they had on yours.

Shervan K Shahhian

Lack of Empathy and Narcissism, the connection:

Lack of Empathy and Narcissism, the connection:

Lack of empathy and narcissism are often considered to be connected in the field of psychology. Narcissistic individuals typically exhibit a lack of empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Here’s how they are often related:

Empathy Deficit in Narcissism:

  • Narcissistic individuals often struggle to genuinely understand or connect with the emotions and perspectives of others.
  • They may be preoccupied with their own needs, desires, and self-image, making it challenging for them to empathize with others.

Self-Centeredness:

  • Narcissism is characterized by an excessive focus on oneself, a need for admiration, and a lack of concern for others.
  • This self-centeredness can contribute to a diminished capacity for empathy, as the individual may prioritize their own needs and validation over understanding others.

Difficulty Recognizing Others’ Perspectives:

  • Narcissistic individuals may have difficulty recognizing or appreciating the feelings and experiences of those around them.
  • They may be more inclined to view others as tools for their own gratification rather than as individuals with their own needs and emotions.

Superficial Charm:

  • Narcissists often display superficial charm and charisma, which can mask a lack of genuine empathy.
  • Their charm may be more focused on gaining admiration and achieving personal goals rather than forming authentic connections with others.

It’s important to note that while lack of empathy is a common trait in narcissism, not all individuals who lack empathy are necessarily narcissistic. Empathy is a complex trait influenced by various factors, including personality, upbringing, and social experiences. Narcissism is just one of many personality traits that can contribute to a diminished capacity for empathy.

Shervan K Shahhian

Superficiality and Narcissism, the connection:

Superficiality and Narcissism, the connection:

Superficiality and narcissism are often connected as both concepts involve a heightened focus on oneself and an emphasis on external appearances.

Superficiality:

Superficiality refers to a tendency to prioritize surface-level attributes and appearances over deeper qualities or substance.
Superficial individuals may place excessive importance on physical attractiveness, material possessions, or societal status.
Narcissism:

Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
Narcissistic individuals often seek validation and admiration from others and may engage in behaviors to maintain an inflated self-image.
Connection:

Both superficiality and narcissism involve a preoccupation with how one is perceived by others.
Superficial individuals may engage in behaviors driven by a desire for external validation, similar to narcissistic tendencies.
Narcissists may exhibit superficial behaviors as they focus on maintaining a positive external image to feed their need for admiration.
It’s important to note that while there is a connection, not all superficial individuals are narcissistic, and vice versa. The degree and nature of these traits can vary among individuals.

Shervan K Shahhian

Behavioral observations in Mental Health:

Behavioral observations in Mental Health:

Behavioral observations play a crucial role in assessing and understanding mental health. Mental health professionals often rely on observational methods to gather information about an individual’s behavior, emotions, and overall functioning. Here are some key aspects of behavioral observations in mental health:

Assessment of Symptoms: Observations help in assessing and identifying specific symptoms related to mental health disorders. This may include changes in mood, speech patterns, motor activity, and social interactions.

Diagnosis: Behavioral observations contribute to the diagnostic process by providing clinicians with firsthand information about the individual’s mental health. This is essential for determining the presence of psychiatric disorders.

Treatment Planning: Observations assist in developing tailored treatment plans. Understanding how an individual behaves in different situations helps in creating interventions that target specific issues and promote positive changes.

Monitoring Progress: Behavioral observations are used to track the progress of individuals undergoing mental health treatment. This ongoing assessment helps in adjusting interventions and ensuring that the treatment plan is effective.

Identifying Triggers: Observing behavior helps in identifying triggers or stressors that may contribute to mental health challenges. Recognizing these triggers is important for developing strategies to manage and cope with them.

Assessing Functioning: Observations provide insights into an individual’s daily functioning, including their ability to carry out routine tasks, maintain relationships, and engage in social activities. This assessment is valuable for evaluating overall well-being.

Risk Assessment: Observations assist in assessing the risk of harm to oneself or others. Changes in behavior may indicate an increased risk, and timely observations can lead to appropriate interventions to ensure safety.

Understanding Social Interactions: Behavioral observations in social settings help mental health professionals understand an individual’s interpersonal skills, communication patterns, and how they navigate relationships.

It’s important to note that behavioral observations are often complemented by other assessment methods, such as interviews, self-report measures, and psychological tests, to obtain a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s mental health status. Additionally, ethical considerations, cultural sensitivity, and the individual’s consent are crucial aspects when conducting behavioral observations in a mental health context.

Shervan K Shahhian

Grandiosity and Narcissism, the connection:

Grandiosity and Narcissism, the connection:

Grandiosity and narcissism are closely related concepts, often associated with certain personality traits and disorders. Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by a heightened sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Grandiosity, on the other hand, refers to an exaggerated belief in one’s own abilities, importance, or uniqueness.

In the context of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), which is a more severe form of narcissism, grandiosity plays a central role. Individuals with NPD often display grandiose fantasies, an inflated sense of self-worth, and a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, or beauty. They may exaggerate their achievements and talents and expect to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements.

In summary, grandiosity is a component of narcissism, particularly in the context of narcissistic personality disorder. The connection lies in the exaggerated sense of self-importance, entitlement, and superiority that are characteristic of both grandiosity and narcissism

Shervan K Shahhian

Entitlement and Narcissism, the connection:

Entitlement and Narcissism, the connection:

Entitlement and narcissism are related psychological concepts, but they are distinct traits.

Entitlement refers to a belief that one is inherently deserving of privileges, special treatment, or recognition without necessarily earning it. It often involves a sense of superiority and entitlement to resources, attention, or success.

Narcissism, on the other hand, is a personality trait characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success or power, and a lack of empathy for others. Narcissists often have an exaggerated sense of their own abilities and importance.

The connection between entitlement and narcissism lies in the fact that individuals with narcissistic tendencies may exhibit a strong sense of entitlement. Their belief in their own superiority and special status can lead to expectations of special treatment and entitlement to privileges.

It’s important to note that not everyone with a sense of entitlement is necessarily narcissistic, and vice versa. While there is a connection between these traits, they can manifest independently in different individuals.

Shervan K Shahhian

Trauma-Related Dissociation (TRD), what is it:

Trauma-related dissociation, what is it:

Trauma-related dissociation refers to a coping mechanism that some individuals develop in response to experiencing traumatic events. Dissociation is a psychological process where a person’s thoughts, feelings, and sense of identity become disconnected or separated from their conscious awareness. This can serve as a defense mechanism to cope with overwhelming stress or trauma.

In the context of trauma-related dissociation, individuals may disconnect from their thoughts, emotions, or memories as a way to distance themselves from the distressing or traumatic experiences. This can manifest in various ways, such as feeling detached from one’s own body, experiencing memory gaps, or having an altered sense of reality.

It’s important to note that trauma-related dissociation exists on a spectrum, ranging from mild and temporary experiences to more severe and chronic dissociative disorders. Professional mental health support is often recommended for individuals experiencing significant trauma-related dissociation to help them process and cope with the effects of the traumatic experiences.

Shervan K Shahhian

Assessment of Dissociative Clients in mental health:

Assessment of Dissociative Clients in mental health:

Assessment of Dissociative Clients in mental health Must be done by a Qualified Mental Health Professional.

Assessing and working with clients who experience dissociation can be a complex and sensitive task in mental health. Dissociation is a defense mechanism that involves a disconnection between thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory. Here are some key considerations for assessing dissociative clients:

Establishing Trust and Rapport:

  • Building a strong therapeutic alliance is crucial. Dissociative clients may have trust issues, so creating a safe and supportive environment is essential.

Screening and Assessment Tools:

  • Use validated screening tools to assess the presence and severity of dissociation. The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) is commonly used in clinical settings.

Comprehensive Clinical Interview:

  • Conduct a thorough clinical interview to gather information about the client’s symptoms, history, and triggers for dissociation. Explore the frequency, duration, and intensity of dissociative experiences.

Understanding Triggers:

  • Identify specific triggers that lead to dissociation. Traumatic events or stressors may be linked to dissociative symptoms, and understanding these triggers is essential for treatment planning.

Assessing Functionality:

  • Evaluate the impact of dissociation on the client’s daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. Assess both the subjective experience of dissociation and its observable effects.

Assessment of Co-occurring Disorders:

  • Screen for and assess any co-occurring mental health disorders, such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, or personality disorders. Dissociation often coexists with other conditions.

Observation of Dissociative States:

  • Observe and document the client’s behavior during dissociative episodes. Note any changes in affect, consciousness, or identity. This information can be valuable for treatment planning.

Collaboration with Other Professionals:

  • Work collaboratively with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or neurologists, to rule out any medical conditions that may contribute to dissociative symptoms.

Psychoeducation:

  • Provide psychoeducation to the client about dissociation, helping them understand their experiences and coping mechanisms. Normalize their feelings and experiences within the therapeutic context.

Safety Planning:

  • Develop a safety plan with the client, especially if dissociation is linked to self-harm or suicidal ideation. Identify strategies and resources to manage crises.

Trauma-Informed Approaches:

  • Use trauma-informed therapeutic approaches that recognize and address the impact of past trauma on dissociative symptoms. Trauma-focused therapies like EMDR or DBT may be beneficial.

Remember that working with dissociative clients requires specialized training and expertise. Referral to a mental health professional with experience in trauma and dissociation may be appropriate if needed.

Shervan K Shahhian

The Science of Narcissism:

The Science of Narcissism:

The science of narcissism involves studying the psychological traits, behaviors, and characteristics associated with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) or narcissistic traits in individuals. Narcissism is a personality trait characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy, and a constant need for admiration.

Researchers in psychology and psychiatry explore various aspects of narcissism, including its causes, manifestations, and impact on individuals and society. Some key areas of study within the science of narcissism include:

Diagnostic Criteria: Understanding the criteria for diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Personality Traits: Examining specific personality traits associated with narcissism, such as entitlement, arrogance, a lack of empathy, and a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, or beauty.

Biological Factors: Investigating possible genetic and neurobiological factors that may contribute to the development of narcissistic traits.

Developmental Factors: Exploring how early life experiences, parenting styles, and environmental factors may play a role in the development of narcissistic personality traits.

Social and Cultural Influences: Analyzing how societal and cultural factors may contribute to the prevalence and expression of narcissistic traits in different populations.

Relationship Dynamics: Studying the impact of narcissism on interpersonal relationships, including friendships, family relationships, and romantic partnerships.

Treatment Approaches: Developing and evaluating therapeutic interventions for individuals with narcissistic personality disorder, as well as strategies for dealing with narcissistic traits in various settings.

It’s important to note that while narcissistic traits are present in varying degrees in the general population, individuals with NPD exhibit more extreme and pervasive patterns of behavior that can significantly impact their functioning and relationships. The science of narcissism aims to deepen our understanding of these complex traits and their implications for mental health and well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian