N.A.R.C.I.S.S.I.S.T.: The Real Meaning of Narcissist

N.A.R.C.I.S.S.I.S.T.: The Real Meaning of Narcissism is a groundbreaking psychological deep dive into the modern narcissist-what they do, how they think, and most importantly, how they affect you. Written by renowned clinical psychologist Dorien Valent, this eye-opening book is more than just an analysis-it's a practical survival guide for anyone who has ever been trapped in the confusing, painful orbit of a narcissist.

Unlike traditional clinical manuals filled with jargon and theory, N.A.R.C.I.S.S.I.S.T. breaks down the narcissistic personality into ten unmistakable behaviours, each one linked to a letter in the acronym. From Never Admits Being Wrong to Triangulates You and Turns You Down, each chapter explores a key psychological tactic used by narcissists to manipulate, control, and destabilise the people around them.

You'll begin to see how these behaviours form a pattern-a systematic way of relating to others that revolves entirely around dominance, image, and avoidance of vulnerability. Narcissists don't just make you feel bad; they make you question your own perception of reality. They twist truth, rewrite history, and turn even your closest relationships into weapons of control. With real-life examples, clear definitions, and step-by-step advice, this book equips readers to recognise these red flags early and respond with clarity and strength.

Each chapter follows a consistent structure that helps you unpack the behaviour on multiple levels:

• Explaining the Behaviour: What does this behaviour look like in real life, and how does it play out in daily interactions?

• Understanding the Behaviour: What drives the narcissist to act this way? What inner insecurities or fears fuel their actions?

• Identifying the Behaviour: How can you spot this tactic in the wild-at home, at work, or in friendships-before it spirals into long-term emotional harm?

• How to Deal with the Behaviour: Clear, empowering advice on protecting your mental wellbeing, setting boundaries, and resisting manipulation.

The beauty of N.A.R.C.I.S.S.I.S.T. lies in its balance. It doesn't demonise or excuse narcissistic individuals-it explains them. Dorien Valent writes with a tone that is compassionate yet unflinching, illuminating the emotional cost of these behaviours while refusing to offer false hope of change where it may not exist.

Whether you've just started questioning your relationship, or you've already been on the receiving end of narcissistic abuse, this book gives you language for what you've felt and clarity for what to do next. It validates the invisible wounds narcissists can leave behind-and it offers a path toward healing.

N.A.R.C.I.S.S.I.S.T. is not just a book about narcissists. It's a book for survivors. For empaths. For anyone who's ever been silenced, dismissed, or made to feel like they were the problem. It is, above all, a book about reclaiming your reality-and your voice.