Narcissism and the myth of invincibility. (2016)

“Even if you’re far past adolescence, you may carry at least part of that ‘personal fable’ notion into your everyday life

Prof. Susan Krauss Whitbourne, University of Massachusetts
Psychology Today, 9 February 2016

“We see plenty of examples in the media of celebrities and politicians who think they can do no harm.

“Believing that no harm can come your way… can lead you to become a victim of the myth of invincibility.

“…Once you’ve convinced yourself that you’re invincible, you fail to see yourself in an accurate or realistic light. Whatever shortcomings you’ve avoided coming to grips with can then come back to haunt you. And, if they’re serious enough, they can lead to your downfall.

“…invincibility is a component of narcissism, as by definition, people high in narcissism cannot see or admit to their own flaws.

“…The myth of invincibility relates to the notion of the personal fable…the tendency of adolescents to engage in endless egocentric fantasies. … Through experience and maturation, most individuals (the non-narcissistic ones) gain a more realistic and measured view of their own importance.

“Those who don’t … are the ones most at risk for the dangers of the invincibility myth.

“…Linked to the personal fable is the “imaginary audience,” the people you believe are following you and evaluating your every move. If Facebook doesn’t exacerbate this, I don’t know what does.

“…Even if you’re far past adolescence, you may carry at least part of that personal fable notion into your everyday life, including your social media presence.”

Access the full article here: Narcissism and the myth of invincibility