egocentrism

Psychology

2022

We explain what egocentricity is and how it develops in children. Also, what is Narcissistic Disorder and some recommendations.

A self-centered person thinks that his opinion is more important than that of others.

What is Egocentrism?

Egocentricity can be defined as an exaggerated exaltation of one's own personality of a person who is in such a way viewed as the center of attention; or the general activities they carry out in a given context, compared to other persons. This word has its origin in Latin, in whichegoit means 'I'.

An egocentric person is one who is considered the best or the most capable to perform certain functions or when talking about a certain topic. In addition, they usually have certain attitudes What speak and emphasize their abilities much of the time, aptitudes or accomplished achievements.

In turn, in many cases egocentric people tend to believe that their opinion is more important than that of others and, therefore, any differences that exist with them will be despised or ignored.

Self-centeredness in children

It is no coincidence that one of the first words babies learn is "mine."

There is a close relationship between self-centeredness and very young children. Jean Piaget, a renowned Swiss psychologist, stated that all young children are egocentric because they do not yet develop the ability to understand different opinions and circumstances with other people in comparison to their own.It is no coincidence that one of the first words babies learn is "mine" to use with their toys or any other object even if they do not belong to them.

In any case, Piaget explains that this attitude present in children is fleeting. Are behaviors They occur most often in babies between 12 and 24 months, but can even last up to five years of age. However, many specialists contradict this theory arguing that Piaget overestimated in his research this characteristic of children; because it would only be the spatial vision they have at such an early age.

Egocentricity and Narcissistic Disorder (NPD)

Egocentric people cannot be classified as those who suffer from a pathology because it is only a way of acting. However, when this attitude intensifies and its duration is even longer and practically constant, it should be no longer classified as egocentricity and called Narcissism.

Narcissistic Disorder (NPD) is defined as the generalized pattern of grandiosity that needs the admiration of both self and others and that lacks empathy. This pathology usually begins in young people and can arise from various contexts. As with most diseases, people who suffer from them are often unable to admit that they have it and cannot recognize themselves as such narcissists.

Some characteristics of people with PND include:belief that their own existence is great and unique and that they create special people who should only be related to people of the same characteristics and not with those they consider inferior. Many times, they tend to show authoritarian and manipulative attitudes and take behaviors of great arrogance and arrogance in front of others.

Recommendations for the egocentric attitude

The psychologist is able to identify the problem and work on the patient's insecurities.

As we explained previously, to achieve a change in the attitude of egocentric people, it is essential that they become aware of their problem in order to modify it. It is recommended that a specialist accompany the person in this process and continue to advise you throughout the process.

The psychologist will be able to identify the root of the trouble and will work on insecurities and low self-esteem that most egocentric patients secretly suffer from their totally opposite attitudes.

If you know a person who has these characteristics and you are willing to help them, you should recognize their achievements or merits in fair measure and not flatter them excessively. Talking and advising the egocentric person is essential as it will help to understand the situation in which he is and how negative and harmful it can be for the person himself or for those around him.

!-- GDPR -->