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Narcissism, Realism, and Their Paradoxical Relation
1106 Elm Ave., Toronto, Ontario M4W 1P2, Canada.
The Psychoanalytic Quarterly
|March 21, 2022
Summary
Narcissistic fantasies paradoxically aid reality testing by managing developmental anxiety. This exploration examines how these fantasies, though detached from reality, foster grounded experiences and thought processes.
Area of Science:
- Psychoanalytic theory
- Psychology of fantasy
- Developmental psychology
Background:
- Narcissistic fantasies often substitute for reality.
- Developmental processes can evoke traumatic anxiety.
- The capacity for reality testing is crucial for psychological well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how narcissistic fantasies contribute to reality testing.
- To examine the paradoxical role of fantasies in moderating anxiety.
- To investigate the development of reality-bound thought through non-reality-bound needs.
Main Methods:
- Psychoanalytic exploration of narcissistic fantasies.
- Analysis of the family romance fantasy.
- Examination of historical, developmental, and clinical perspectives.
Main Results:
- Narcissistic fantasies can paradoxically facilitate reality testing.
- These fantasies moderate anxiety, preventing developmental trauma.
- Non-reality-bound needs can foster reality-bound experiences and thought.
Conclusions:
- Narcissistic fantasies play a vital, albeit paradoxical, role in developing a capacity for reality testing.
- The moderation of anxiety by these fantasies is key to preventing psychological trauma.
- Understanding this dynamic offers insights into individual development and clinical psychoanalysis.
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