Narcissism – The shadow of transpersonal psychology
Transpersonal Psychology Review September 1, 2008 DOI: 10.53841/bpstran.2008.12.2.47 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractNarcissism appears in two forms: ego-inflation, characterized by pathological grandiosity, and the Moses complex, marked by excessive self-devaluation and low self-esteem. In groups, both manifest through the symbiotic relationship between charismatic leaders and worshipping followers. These represent subtle spiritual defense mechanisms that obstruct the genuine spiritual task of discovering and transcending one's true self. Due to its focus on spiritual and transcendent experiences, transpersonal psychology is especially prone to attracting individuals with narcissistic issues, and awareness of this tendency is important. Practical implications for the field are discussed.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Argues that narcissism, in both grandiose and self-devaluing forms, functions as a spiritual defense mechanism and that transpersonal psychology may attract individuals with such tendencies. |
Abstract
Narcissism comes in two variants: Ego-inflation and the Moses complex. While the former is exhibited by pathological grandiosity, the latter is marked by excessive self-devaluation and lack of self-esteem. In group contexts, both are found in the symbiotic appearance of charismatic leaders and worshipping followers. Both are subtle forms of spiritual defense mechanisms against the true spiritual task of finding and transcending one’s ‘true’ self. Because of its specific topic, transpersonal psychology is particularly likely to attract people with narcissistic problems and one should be aware of this. Some practical implications are pointed out.