The Origins of a Narcissist's Sense of Entitlement

Many people are familiar with the term sense of entitlement and often associate it with negative connotations. However, a sense of entitlement is a fundamental part of human nature and is crucial for our survival and development. This article explores how a narcissist's sense of entitlement is formed and why it often appears broken or distorted.

Entitlement: A Necessary Survival Mechanism

As individuals, we all have a built-in sense of entitlement. It is essential for survival and thriving in society. It allows us to understand and assert our rights and needs in various contexts. For example, the right to drive, the right to move through traffic, or the right to achieve a promotion at work. The term 'entitlement' is frequently misused or misunderstood, but it is a fundamental aspect of our social interactions and personal development.

Examples of Entitlement in Everyday Life

Let's take driving as an example. Imagine a situation where a driver cuts you off while you are trying to merge onto the highway. The driver who made the cut-off action feels entitled to do so, while you feel entitled to merge safely. Both actions are rooted in a sense of entitlement, but they can lead to conflict if not managed appropriately. Understanding the unwritten rules of the road and the expected behaviors in traffic situations allows us to navigate these challenges effectively.

Entitlement also extends to other aspects of life, such as career aspirations. When one aims to advance their career by getting a promotion, they are exercising a sense of entitlement to gain recognition and advancement. In scenarios like these, it is crucial to recognize that everyone has a sense of entitlement, even if it may not be evident at first glance.

The Broken Sense of Entitlement in Narcissists

The difference between a healthy sense of entitlement and a broken sense of entitlement is often observed in individuals labeled as narcissists. Narcissists exhibit a distorted or inflated sense of entitlement, which is rooted in their childhood experiences and upbringing.

For narcissists, their sense of entitlement may have been reinforced by a weak or neglectful parenting style. These individuals may have learned that they can expect favorable treatment and outcomes without putting in the necessary effort. This can lead to an inflated sense of entitlement, where they believe they deserve special treatment or that others should cater to their needs without question.

On the other end of the spectrum, a broken sense of entitlement can be caused by a lack of self-worth, inadequate support, and inconsistent reinforcement. In this case, the individual may lack confidence in their ability to achieve desired outcomes on their own. They might also feel uncertain about their rights and might not assert their needs due to fear of confrontation or rejection.

Impact on Social and Emotional Well-being

The broken sense of entitlement in narcissists can have significant implications for their social and emotional well-being. Individuals with an inflated sense of entitlement may struggle with empathy and interpersonal relationships, leading to resentment and isolation. Conversely, those with a deflated sense of entitlement may experience low self-worth, depression, and an inability to assert their needs effectively.

Understanding the origins and manifestations of a narcissist's broken sense of entitlement is crucial for addressing and managing these issues. This knowledge can help in promoting healthier attitudes towards personal rights and responsibilities, fostering more positive and fulfilling relationships.