Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Patterns, Processes, and Indicators of Change in Long-Term Psychotherapy

Abstract

Change in treatment of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) has been considered difficult to attain. Aspects of narcissistic pathology, including interpersonal enhancement, avoidance, aggressivity, and control, have contributed to challenges in forming a therapeutic alliance and pursuing treatment towards attainable goals for change and remission. This study, based on a qualitative review of therapists’ case reports of individual psychotherapy with eight patients diagnosed with NPD, is the first to identify and explore patterns, processes, and indicators of change in pathological narcissism. All patients showed significant improvement in personality and life functioning, including engagement in work or education and long-term close relationships, with remission of the NPD diagnosis. The process of change was gradual, with some noticeable changes occurring in specific life contexts. Additional factors indicating and contributing to change included patients’ motivation and commitment to psychotherapy, reflective ability, emotion regulation, sense of agency, and interpersonal and social engagement.