Back in February 2016, I blogged about Donald Trump displaying behavioural traits associated with an extreme narcissist (https://froliticks.wordpress.com/2016/02/29/donald-trump-and-extreme-narcissism/). I recently read a very interesting article in the UK’s Independent on “collective narcissism” written by Alan D. Blotcky, a clinical psychologist in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Blotcky noted that collective narcissism refers to the feelings of greatness or supremacy of a group of people organized by race, ethnicity, religion, or some other distinction. He also noted that the narcissistic connection between Trump and his supporters is a bond that is irrational and incredibly strong. In this post-election period, it has now become evident that Trump and his supporters are mutually invested in maintaining their collective narcissism at any cost.
The failure of Trump to concede his defeat is a reflection of the narcissistic behaviour prevalent during his entire administration. Unfortunately, the mass media loved to cover his every uttering, often on Twitter, whether or not they made any sense or had an ounce of truth. Trump’s supporters followed his every word as if it was gospel and as if he were an occult leader. There is little doubt, as reflected in the election’s results, that many of his supporters have numerous legitimate grievances and concerns around sociocultural and economic issues. Unfortunately, as Dr. Blotcky notes, the resulting collective narcissism led some of them to support several unfounded conspiracy theories and various extreme groups whose ideologies include racism, xenophobia, terrorism, or fascism. The President simply manipulated these grievances to encourage support for his views and the need for gratification as a way to prop up his own narcissism and image.
Dr. Blotcky goes on to give several suggestions as to how to deal with such collective narcissism among Americans in order to reduce the evident divisiveness left behind by President Trump. One important suggestion is to cut off Trump’s media lifeline that unfortunately had been used effectively to stoke the fears of white Americans and to reinforce their growing collective narcissism. An extreme narcissist loves the attention, so don’t give him any when he is no longer president. Instead, concentrate on the words and actions of President Elect Joe Biden, hoping that he can begin the healing process. Dr. Blotcky advocates: “Unity, inclusiveness and honesty must be our mantra going forward.” No one should have been surprised that Donald Trump refuses to concede in light of Joe Biden’s victory and that the majority of America voters rejected his policies. No one should be surprised that his administration is acting vindictively and refuses to assist the incoming administration towards a smooth transition to govern. These are the continuing actions of an extreme narcissist. For the sake of the country and democracy, the sooner Donald Trump leaves office, the better off we’ll all be!
FROLITICKS 