Traumatic Narcissism Theory: A Contemporary Introduction

In this illuminating and informative book, Daniel Shaw provides a succinct and highly accessible introduction to his concept of Traumatic Narcissism, describing the psychology of the traumatizing narcissist and the impact of their behaviour on victims. Distinguishing the Traumatic Narcissism Theory (TNT) from other dominant psychoanalytic theories of narcissism, Shaw begins by retelling the ancient myth of Narcissus with an emphasis on the character of Echo, the victim of Narcissus' cruelty. Acknowledging the seminal contributions of Sigmund Freud and highlighting the work of Otto Kernberg and Heinz Kohut, Shaw clarifies that rather than treating narcissistic personality disorders, TNT is intended for the therapeutic healing and recovery of victims of narcissistic abuse. Shaw highlights the impact of a wide range of thinkers on the development of TNT, from Erich Fromm to the relational psychoanalysts and contemporary traumatologists. Emphasizing the clinical utility of the traumatic narcissism concepts, Shaw integrates both theoretical and clinical material to show how TNT enables victims to recover their wounded subjectivity and heal the self-alienation that results from the traumatizing narcissist's manipulation and abuse. This book is a vital resource for clinicians working with victims of narcissistic abuse, for those conducting psychoanalytic and trauma training programs, and for the wider public interested in the impact of narcissistic abuse and exploitation.