Narcissism is expressed is as many ways as there are individuals to give life to it. Narcissists appear to be very prevalent at this time and recent studies indicate that this is true. There have always been narcissists, even in the Paleolithic Caves.  

Is there something fundamentally wrong about pursuing luxury? Probably not. But to what degree? Everyone who is wealthy and successful is not a narcissist. Among the uber-rich and super rich wannabes, there are a plethora of narcissists. Narcissists believe and behave as if  they deserve to have whatever and whomever they want at any time. The psychological pain and emotional chaos that this causes their family members and others near them is stunning. It does not concern the narcissist. HIs focus is in manipulating, seducing and exploiting others to serve his huge ego. 

The business and entertainment culture together with the "Its all about me and my power" political structure and  the twenty four hour media feeding cycle constantly caters to inflating the narcissistic ego. Many of those who wield power equate  financial success with the quality of a person's character. Some individuals have a stunning attitude that if you are not financially successful, it is your fault. There are  exceptions; extraordinary individuals who continually give back to others in need in the most compassionate and  unobtrusive ways.  

Narcissists feel they deserve to have whatever they want: new wives, generations of children, lovers, numerous residences, private islands, enormous custom built yachts, planes, etc. The consequences to others of getting exactly what and whom he desires is of no concern to the narcissist.

The man in the red Ferrari felt entitled to have this gorgeous, in your face, very expensive car. (On the high end, a Ferrari can cost $1,000,000.00.)  He told me that he had worked very hard. He was trying to convince me that this was the reason he deserved the car. I mentioned that many people work very hard and that George Soros, the international billionaire said that half of the reason why he is uber-rich is luck---timing, fate, connections, synchronicity.  I don't know if the man in the red Ferrari is a narcissist for sure.  He exuded many of their qualities: grandiosity, feelings of superiority, self entitlement, psychological exhibitionism, a powerful sense of projecting an image of perfection and a disinterest and boredom in anything or anyone that was not directly connected with him and his monetary success. The man in the Ferrari is wedded to his vehicle: a ready source of narcissistic supplies---for the moment. Visit my website: www.thenarcissistinyourlife.com

Linda Martinez-Lewi, Ph.D.
email:lmlphd@gmail.com