I have heard countless life histories of children who grew up with a narcissistic sibling. They have suffered horribly and been neglected by their parents. Many of them have benefited from quality psychotherapy and have triumphed to lead their own lives, out of the shadow of their narcissistic brother or sister.

 A typical scenario is that of the older brother athlete. In one family the father (Gerald) knew when his son was born that he would become a professional star athlete. The son (Brett) was physically strong and very well coordinated. Gerald began training his son at the age of three. He spent all of his waking hours, working with Gerald at developing his athletic potential. For Gerald it was an obsession. Gerald was a frustrated athlete. The mother (Janice) was so intimidated by her husband that she had no influence over how her son was raised. As long as Brett performed, he was never taught to treat others with dignity and respect. When he was cruel to his sister Pamela and talked back to his mom, Gerald never corrected him since he saw his son as perfect. As Brett grew he did become a superior player and eventually became professional. Growing up, Brett's trophies dominated the house. In every corner, there were altars to his athletic excellence.

Brett's sister Pamela was a non-entity in the house. She felt like a stranger living there. Pamela was on the sidelines permanently. Although she was an excellent student, Gerald never acknowledged the value of his daughter's gifts. Women in all forms were a nuisance to him, including his wife and daughter. Pamela succeeded academically and became a university professor. She left home early and never looked back. She benefited from good psychotherapy and was able to deal with the psychological deficits she endured during childhood. She studied the narcissistic personality intensely and understood that her brother and her father suffered from this severe personality disorder.

Today she keeps her brother at a safe distance. Pamela maintains her psychological boundaries with him. She is neither overwhelmed nor intimidated by him anymore. She is aware of all of his manipulative games and hidden agendas. Pamela is a success story, an inspiration. She has worked very hard to experience herself as a whole, evolving and secure individual. To learn more specifics about the narcissistic personality disorder and how to deal with these individuals, visit my website: www.thenarcissistinyourlife.com