2015-09-05 Narcissism

QUESTION:
In one of Marc’s teachings he touched on narcissism. What would be your perspective opinion and advice be to Christian living in this kind of situation?

RESPONSE:
Thanks for your question. This is a difficult question to answer. The problem with people who have narcissistic tendencies is that they have no concept of boundaries which means they see no distinction between themselves and others. The result is that everyone is seen as an extension of themselves and thus everyone exists to serve them and their happiness. Making such a person aware of their problem is not easy because of such a lack of “self-awareness” (i.e. they don’t know their own boundaries). In such situations, others need to have an especially strong sense of themselves and their own boundaries, be sure to communicate these to the other person, and regularly make the other person aware when they cross any such clearly communicated boundaries.

Each situation is unique and so we recommend meeting with one of our pastors who can assist you to help setting specific boundaries within your relationship.