Narcissism is a psychological trait that permeates the history of humanity, manifesting in various and often subtle ways. From the myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own image reflected in the water, to contemporary debates about the culture of individualism and social media, the fascination with the self continues to intrigue philosophers, psychologists, and scholars of the human mind.
In the field of mental health, narcissism can be understood both as a personality trait and as a spectrum ranging from healthy self-esteem to pathology. While a moderate degree of self-worth is essential for well-being and personal development, extreme narcissism can lead to destructive behavior patterns, such as manipulation, lack of empathy, and an incessant pursuit of admiration and control.