How to Talk to a Narcissist

by Joan Lachkar, Ph.D.

HB: 978-0-415-95855 4  |  $45  |  250 pages  |  Order

Much has been written about narcissism, addressing not only its theoretical aspects, its psychodynamics, and the defense mechanisms within the spectrum of various kinds of narcissists. Yet, little if anything has been written about how to actually communicate with one, or what Dr. Lachkar refers to as the “Language of Empathology.” This book focuses on specific communication styles in addressing patients with severe narcissistic personality pathology which can be extremely beneficial to mental health professionals, who are often inundated with technical terms rather than offered a practical guide on how to actually "talk" to a narcissist.

How to Talk to a Narcissist is designed to be a guide useful to both beginning and seasoned practitioners. The book is recommended to all clinicians treating individuals, couples, groups, within the scope of various narcissistic personality disorders. The book has many applications, including use as a textbook for universities, clinics, graduate courses, and analytic training institutes. People in business, partnerships, commercial sales, and human resources will also find the approach to communicating with a narcissist valuable.

In this second edition of her groundbreaking book, Dr. Joan Lachkar addresses the ever-changing faces and phases of narcissism within the context of marital therapy and discusses the new developments in the treatment of marital conflict. Drawing from many different theoretical frameworks, mainly self-psychology (Kohut) and object relations (Klein), the works of D.W, Winnicott, and Kernberg are expanded to further explain why couples stay in painful, conflictual, neverending relationships (traumatic bonding). The new chapters, case illustrations, and updated treatment sequences are invaluable to both beginning and experienced clinicians. This book is an essential text for every marital therapist, offering an improved understanding of marital pathology within the framework of our changing world.

Table of Contents
Narcissism: An Overview. Theoretical Considerations Revisited. The Pathological Narcissist. The Malignant Narcissist. The Antisocial Narcissist. The Depressed Narcissist. The Obsessive Compulsive Narcissist. The Passive-Aggressive Narcissist. The Narcissist the Artist. The Cultural Narcissist. Final Thoughts. References. Glossary. Index.

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