A Real Definition of Narcissistic Abuse

A Real Definition of Narcissistic Abuse

Author: Mark Ettensohn, Psy.D. February 8, 2023 Duration: 10:20
The term ‘narcissistic abuse’ has been, itself, heavily abused. Is has largely been a pop-psychology term that means different things depending on how and where it is used. It is often used to demonize individuals with pathological narcissism and NPD, who represent an at-risk population for depression, self-harm, and suicide.  In this episode, Dr. Ettensohn provides a new definition for narcissistic abuse - one that is *actually* specific to pathological narcissism and NPD. This new definition is based on the psychodynamics of the disorder itself, and describes an inter-generational chain of emotional mistreatment that creates narcissistic pathology in children, who then grow up to use people in the same way that they, themselves, were used. 

In Heal NPD, clinical psychologist Mark Ettensohn, Psy.D., offers a nuanced and compassionate exploration of narcissism, moving beyond simplistic labels to examine the underlying psychological structures. This podcast delves into the complexities of narcissistic personality disorder and related traits, providing clarity for those who recognize these patterns in themselves or in their relationships. Dr. Ettensohn draws from his specialized therapeutic practice to discuss the origins of narcissistic adaptations, the impact on interpersonal dynamics, and the realistic pathways toward change and healing. Episodes often break down clinical concepts into accessible language, featuring discussions on empathy, identity, shame, and the challenging process of building healthier self-esteem and relational skills. The tone is educational yet deeply human, aiming to reduce stigma and foster understanding. Whether you are a mental health professional, someone personally affected by NPD, or simply curious about personality psychology, this series provides a rare, expert-guided look into a frequently misunderstood area of human behavior. Tune in for a thoughtful perspective that prioritizes psychological science and the possibility of growth.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 62

Heal NPD
Podcast Episodes
Internal Absence: Emptiness in NPD [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:00
Dr. Mark Ettensohn examines the experience of emptiness in narcissistic personality disorder and other forms of personality pathology. Rather than approaching personality disorders as collections of traits or behaviors,…
Living with Pathological Narcissism: What Loved Ones Reveal [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:09
This episode continues the Heal NPD Seminar Series with Dr. Mark Ettensohn, joined by his associates Deanna Young, Psy.D., and Danté Spencer, Ph.D. In this session, the group discusses the paper “Living with Pathological…
Narcissism Is Not a Moral Category [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:50
Dr. Mark Ettensohn examines a growing tendency in public discourse to treat narcissism as a moral category rather than as a psychological construct. The episode explores why this shift occurs and how misunderstandings ab…
Accountability Without Dehumanization [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:24
Dr. Mark Ettensohn addresses a question that frequently arises in discussions of narcissism and abuse: Is it possible to maintain accountability without dehumanizing? Can someone preserve firm boundaries without abandoni…
2025 Study: Narcissism Does Not Predict Abuse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:23
This episode continues the Heal NPD Seminar Series with Dr. Mark Ettensohn, joined by his associates Deanna Young, Psy.D., and Danté Spencer, M.A. In this session, the group examines a recent empirical study titled Coerc…
The Ethics of Narc-Abuse Content: Why 'It Helps' Isn't Enough [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:52
In this episode, Dr. Mark Ettensohn examines a common defense of online “narcissistic abuse” content: the claim that, even if imperfect or inaccurate, it ultimately helps people leave harmful relationships. Rather than f…
From Validation to Isolation: The Narc-Abuse Pipeline [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:03
In this video, Dr. Ettensohn examines the online narc-abuse ecosystem and explores how content that initially feels validating and supportive can, over time, become thought-constraining and socially isolating for some vi…
Understanding Empathy in Narcissistic Personality Disorder [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:53
This video continues the Heal NPD Seminar Series, featuring Dr. Mark Ettensohn with his associates, Deanna Young, Psy.D., and Danté Spencer, M.A. In this session, the group discusses Empathy and Narcissistic Personality…