In the enchanting world of movies and TV shows, we often encounter narratives that humanize narcissists undergoing transformative journeys and mafia bosses who reveal tender sides through their love for family. But behind the glitz and glamour lies a dangerous game of rewriting reality, where the darkest hearts are painted with strokes of redemption, blurring the lines between fiction and the chilling truths they mirror.
For survivors of trauma, these portrayals can be hurtful and invalidating, making it hard to enjoy or even watch these shows and movies.
Media’s Portrayal
Media often portrays narcissists and psychopaths in a way that captures public fascination.
Here are 10 ways this is done and reasons why we are drawn to these characters:
Charismatic and Charming
Media often depicts narcissists and psychopaths as exceptionally charismatic and charming, making them intriguing and likable despite their darker traits. This allure is captivating and keeps audiences engaged.
Power and Control
These characters are frequently shown wielding significant power and control, either in personal relationships or professional settings. Their ability to dominate and manipulate can be both fascinating and terrifying, drawing viewers in.
High-Stakes Drama
Narcissists and psychopaths are often central to high-stakes drama, including crime thrillers, political dramas, and corporate power struggles. The tension and unpredictability they bring create compelling narratives. Their lives are full of intense and exciting events that keep us on the edge of our seats.
Complex Psychology
The intricate and often enigmatic nature of these characters’ minds adds depth to their stories. Audiences are intrigued by the psychological complexities and the exploration of what makes them tick.
Chance for Change
Sometimes, stories show them trying to change, adding a hopeful twist. In the narcissistic or psychopathic narrative viewers see a different side of them. This potential for change or understanding adds a layer of complexity and hope to their stories.
Relatable Traits
Some traits, like ambition, confidence, and resilience, are traits many people admire or relate to, albeit in less extreme forms. This relatability can make these characters more engaging.
Spectacular Downfalls
The eventual downfall or exposure of narcissists and psychopaths can be dramatic and satisfying to watch. The anticipation of their comeuppance keeps audiences hooked.
Hero vs. Villain Dynamic
These characters often serve as formidable villains to equally compelling heroes. The dynamic between hero and villain drives the plot and creates a powerful emotional response in viewers.
Moral Ambiguity
Narcissists and psychopaths blur the lines between good and evil, challenging viewers to consider moral complexities and the nature of humanity. This ambiguity can be thought-provoking and engaging.
Escapism
Watching these characters allows audiences to escape their everyday lives and experience a world of heightened reality, where the stakes are higher and the personalities are larger than life. This form of escapism is both thrilling and entertaining.
Why We Are Fascinated
Curiosity
There’s a natural curiosity about the extremes of human behavior and the psychological makeup of individuals who operate outside societal norms.
Vicarious Experience
Audiences enjoy living vicariously through the bold, reckless, and sometimes glamorous lives of narcissists and psychopaths.
Understanding Evil
People are intrigued by the nature of evil and what drives individuals to commit heinous acts, leading to a deeper interest in these characters.
Cognitive Dissonance
The contrast between a character’s charming facade and their malicious actions creates cognitive dissonance, which can be mentally stimulating and emotionally engaging.
Social Reflection
These characters often reflect societal issues such as power dynamics, corruption, and moral decay, prompting viewers to reflect on the world around them.
The media’s portrayal of narcissists and psychopaths taps into these deep-seated interests, making them some of the most compelling and enduring characters in storytelling.
Glamorized Abuse
Watching glorified narcissists and psychopaths in media can be very difficult for survivors of trauma. Here are some reasons why:
Painful Memories
Seeing these characters can bring back painful memories of their own experiences, making it hard to watch.
Unrealistic Portrayals
Movies and TV shows often downplay the real harm these people cause, making it seem less serious than it actually is.
Lack of Survivor’s Voice
The stories often focus on the abuser, not the survivor, leaving their perspective and struggles out of the picture.
Glorification of Abusers
When these characters are shown as charming and powerful, it can feel like their abusive behavior is being praised or justified.
Minimizing Trauma
The impact of their actions on victims is often minimized, making it seem like the survivors’ pain isn’t valid or important.
Triggering Content
Certain scenes can be triggering, causing emotional distress or flashbacks to their own traumatic experiences.
Isolation
Survivors might feel isolated or misunderstood when their experiences are not accurately or sensitively portrayed, reinforcing feelings of loneliness and alienation.
For survivors of trauma, these portrayals can be hurtful and invalidating, making it hard to enjoy or even watch these shows and movies.
About the Author
Ilse Gevaert is a psychologist and coach with expertise in trauma, narcissistic and psychopathic abuse, resilience, neurodiversity (ASD and ADHD), and giftedness. Ilse continued her education at prestigious institutions such as Harvard and Cornell, where she obtained leadership certificates that have informed her practice.
Read More on this Topic
The Dark Triad: Narcissism, Psychopathy, Machiavellianism
“Baby Reindeer”: A Raw Look at Survival
Breaking Free: Overcoming Shame After Abuse
Misconceptions About Survivors of Toxic Relationships
Understanding Brain Differences in Narcissism and Psychopathy
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