Words are often used without their intended meaning. Some words have been banned from use by certain races or groups or simply removed from the game due to their crude nature, while others remain in everyday use. The word narcissist is often thrown around at people as a derogatory way of describing anyone acting on their own behalf. Unknown to many, it is also used as a medical term to categorize the behaviors, symptoms and problems of a personality disorder. The Urban Dictionary (2005) defines a narcissist, in simple terms, as a person who is overly obsessed with their appearance and stature (Mercedes). While the Webster Dictionary (1913) gives the definition of someone who is in love with oneself (Webster-dictionary.org). The Mayo Clinic medical definition (2011) explains narcissism as “narcissistic personality disorder,” a mental disorder that affects people who have a heightened sense of importance and an overwhelming thirst for respect and esteem. The clinic states that the person often feels unique and stands above all else, without taking into account the emotions of others. The person may appear strong and self-reliant, but often has low self-confidence and is overly emotionally sensitive (Mayo Clinic Staff, para. 1). The first two definitions of the word narcissist are quite similar, they are more commonly known and used by the general public. The medical definition provides insight into the hidden reality that people insulted with the title narcissist may actually suffer from a cognitive impairment that may be unknown to them. Regarding its origin, the word is often used incorrectly, but over the years, narcissistic has been brought into the medical field and is commonly used to describe and...... middle of paper ...... it Causes “Narcissistic Personality Disorder” are unknown. Several theories link narcissism to the child's upbringing, genetics, or the person's psychology. The disorder may even be a combination of all three potential elements, adding to its complexity (Psych Central, para.12). Treatment of narcissistic personality disorder is equally complex. Long-term individual or group psychotherapy is the only known treatment, although medications can be used in combination to treat. elements of the disorder (Mayo Clinic Staff 2, para. 3) This small overview of the word narcissist provides a wealth of information about the personal aspects that a name can convey. The medical field has also added and redefined the meaning of the word. narcissistic, creating many different levels of the word. So what was once used as a descriptive word by many is now a condition that others suffer from..