Interaffectivity Disturbances in Narcissistic Personality Disorder

doi:10.1017/9781009445955.022

21 - Interaffectivity Disturbances in Narcissistic Personality Disorder

from Part V - Perspectives on Borderline and Narcissistic Personality

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 June 2025

Susi Ferrarello

Edited by

Konrad Banicki and

Peter Zachar

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Konrad Banicki: Affiliation:
Jagiellonian University, Krakow
Peter Zachar: Affiliation:
Auburn University, Montgomery

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Summary

This chapter will examine how intentionality shapes the intimate life of people affected by narcissistic traits. Focusing on the notion of interaffectivity, the chapter will discuss the affectivity of people suffering from narcissistic traits through the lenses of passive, active and practical intentionality as expounded in Husserl’s work. I believe that the clarification of the narcissistic wound and its impact on the interaffective dynamics of daily life might help rehabilitation to a healthier life. Removing the “intentional blockage” that prevents them from exploring the content of their lived-experience would restore an interaffective space conducive to a more flourishing intimate life with their loved ones.

Keywords

narcissism intentionality Husserl phenomenology

Information

Type: Chapter
Information: Conceptualizing Personality Disorder
Perspectives from Philosophy, Psychological Science, and Psychiatry
, pp. 373 - 385

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009445955.022 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2025

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