My mom has narcissistic personality disorder, how to cope

Yes, it seems that bpd not only can be passed on thru genes but can be brought on by terrible child hoods. Sadly I know about this all to well

narcis, how do you know your mother has NPD? What symptoms are you witnessing?

I am currently studying Counseling Psychology @ Rutgers University. I most recently read an excellent book on this subject titled, "Will I ever be enough? Healing the Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers" by Karyl McBride. You can get it @ Amazon. Highly recommend it!

1. Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)
2. Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love
3. Believes that she is "special" and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)
4. Requires excessive admiration
5. Has a sense of entitlement, i.e., unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with her expectations
6. Is interpersonally exploitative, i.e., takes advantage of others to achieve her own ends
7. Lacks empathy: is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others
8. Is often envious of others and believes others are envious of her
9. Shows arrogant, haughty behavior or attitudes.

I would add that this personality's is highly manipulative ir the only truth they know is how something affects the narcissist at that minute ,and if her need changes , the facts are manipulated to see truth in another way .

The sad reality - This type of person is impossible to deal with and you must develop your own sense of self and close your heart to her, unfortunately . If she makes you her confidant, you will have to realize that it gives you a false sense of closeness and will soon leave you alone and in pain.

I agree because I went through all that with her.