International Journal of Coercion, Abuse, and Manipulation (IJCAM)

Vol. 8 (2025). Published January 15th, 2025.  

DOI: doi.org/10.54208/1000/0008/006 

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Understanding the Traumatic Narcissism Theory and its Clinical Utility


Daniel Shaw

Abstract

This paper sets forth the Traumatic Narcissism Theory and will define and clarify the following terms: traumatic narcissism; narcissistic abuse; the traumatizing narcissist; the traumatizing narcissist’s relational system of subjugation. The Traumatic Narcissism Theory is intended for the treatment of victims of narcissistic abuse, distinguishing it from other psychoanalytic theories intended for the treatment of pathological narcissism and individuals diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. This paper identifies eight specific abusive behaviors deployed by the traumatizing narcissist that are subjugating and traumatizing.

Keywords: Traumatic Narcissism Theory; traumatizing narcissist; narcissistic abuse; the traumatizing narcissist’s relational system of subjugation