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Instrumental narcissism in parents
1Department of Child Studies, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155.
Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Instrumental narcissism describes parents pushing children toward genius, devaluing the child
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Child Development
- Clinical Psychiatry
Background:
- Narcissism is a complex personality construct.
- Parental influence significantly shapes child development.
- Instrumental narcissism represents a specific manifestation of parental narcissism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and explore instrumental narcissism in parents.
- To examine the impact of parental efforts on child's self-worth.
- To contextualize instrumental narcissism within current narcissism discourse.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical and contemporary examples.
- Clinical case analysis.
- Theoretical exploration of narcissistic traits in parenting.
Main Results:
- Instrumental narcissism involves parents projecting desired traits onto children.
- This syndrome diminishes the child's intrinsic abilities and self-esteem.
- Parental grandiosity is a key feature, overshadowing the child's individuality.
Conclusions:
- Instrumental narcissism poses risks to a child's psychological development.
- Understanding this syndrome is crucial for clinical interventions.
- Further research is needed on the long-term effects of such parenting.
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