The (Un)Surprising Link Between Narcissism and New Age Spirituality
Modern spiritual beliefs provide a convenient place for narcissistic people to skirt accountability and awareness.
When the news about Teal Swan broke last year, many were surprised. How could such a spiritual person push their followers to such heinous places? It’s a question that got asked of NXIVM, of The People’s Temple. We ask ourselves this question every time a cult leader turns on their people to create violent, hopeless, and emotionally abusive environments.
It’s no surprise when you understand narcissism and the mechanisms behind it. People high in narcissistic tendencies, especially those who would meet the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder, find a lot of solace in spiritual communities. Despite what it promises, new-age spiritual beliefs are often a feeding ground. They provide a shield for a narcissist and a place to gain supply.
Narcissism keeps reappearing.
No matter where you look, it’s easy to see pockets of narcissism bubbling up. Narcissistic people are creative in the ways they disguise themselves and hide their insecurities and egos. That can be seen no clearer than in the new-age spiritual community. Here, narcissists thrive…
