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Freeing Yourself from the Narcissist in Your Life
enlarge	Author: Linda Martinez-lewi Publisher: Tarcher Category: Book List Price: ~~$23.95~~ Buy New: $7.32 You Save: $16.63 (69%) New (44) Used (10) from $7.32 Media: Hardcover Number Of Items: 1 Pages: 256 Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.8 Dimensions (in): 8.4 x 5.7 x 1 ISBN: 1585426245 Dewey Decimal Number: 158.2 EAN: 9781585426249 ASIN: 1585426245 Publication Date: January 10, 2008 Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days Shipping: Expedited shipping available Condition: SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! NEW Book! May have remainder mark. Most orders ship within 1 BUSINESS DAY with ORDER CONFIRMATION.

Editorial Reviews: Amazon.com Review "Psychotherapist Martinez-Lewi combines clinical analysis with psychological profiles of famous people she believes to have been narcissists (e.g., Frank Lloyd Wright, Ayn Rand) in this valuable guide to recognizing, coping with, and overcoming narcissistic behavior. She focuses on the high-level narcissist, i.e., the "omnipotent, grandiose, often charismatic individual of overreaching ambition and palpable hubris," distinguishing diagnostically between narcissists and borderline and antisocial personalities. She further presents a historical and societal perspective on narcissism, explaining the shift in focus in psychopathology from neuroses to personality disorders. Throughout, she draws on solid secondary biographies as well as relevant case studies from her private practice, and she ends with a reasoned discussion of decidedly Eastern approaches (e.g., meditation) to counter narcissists destructive behavior. The book is written with a calm directness and achieves the authors purpose of helping readers identify and protect themselves from naively tangling with these personalities. It offers more clinical analysis and experience than does Eleanor Paysons The Wizard of Oz and Other Narcissists and nicely complements Nina W. Browns Children of the Self-Absorbed. Highly recommended for university and larger public libraries.brbr Dale Farris, Library Journal brbr "FREEING YOURSELF FROM THE NARCISSIST IN YOUR LIFE by Linda Martinez- Lewi,PhD (Tarcher/Penguin) may just be the best investment you will make this year as a guide to recognizing, coping with, and ultimately overcoming the destructive behavior of high-level narcissists, whether they be lovers, co- workers, friends or parents. Its one thing to have a healthy self-esteem, but there are folks who we all know as self-absorbed, conceited, or egotistical. These people are trouble and this book is an excellent guide to deal with them."brbr Alan Caruba, BOOKVIEWS brbr "5 THINGS WE LEARNED FROM. FREEING YOURSELF FROM THE NARCISSIST IN YOUR LIFE By Linda Martinez-Lewi, Ph.D. (Tarcher/Penguin) br According to the psychotherapist author, narcissists are people with extreme senses of superiority who possess no empathy. Martinez-Lewi believes that high- level narcissists are unlikely to change, so she offers methods for readers to maintain personal boundaries, remain psychologically secure and live the life they choose. br 1. As our culture has emphasized financial success and fame, we have begun rewarding high-level narcissismbr 2. There is such a thing as healthy narcissism. He or she "has a firm realistic sense of self. br3. "A successful narcissist deludes others into believing he is genuinely interested in them."br 4. To withstand an eruption of ego from a narcissist, one must be psychologically grounded. "A grounded individual is secure and calm; he feels solid at his center." br5. The world of a narcissist is often complicated. To combat being part of that world; simplify your own.brbr Chris McNamara, CHICAGOTRIBUNE.COM brbr "The author, psychotherapist and licensed marriage and family therapist has written a guide making it easier to recognize, cope with and ultimately overcome the destructive behavior of high-level narcissists, whether they be lovers, work colleagues, friends or parents. Drawing on detailed profiles of famous narcissists including Pablo Picasso, Frank Lloyd Wright and Ayn Rand, she points out that trying to change a narcissist is impossible and reveals the steps that must be taken to expel such destructive individuals from our lives."br brTucsoncitizen.com brbr "The high-level narcissist marches through his many geographies, conquering new territories, multiplying his limitless control of the outside world and the lives of those who touch his. Excited followers anticipate his mood and moves, praying for a favorable word or glance. The chosen dwell within his cercle dor, chanting hosannas to his greatness. While his audience is dazzled, the supernarcissist assesses each subjects worth to him. brbr He plays upon their proclivities and weaknesses. Despite the years you have known him, the hard work you have done, the love that you express, the sacrifices you have made, the intimacies you believe you shared-eventually the narcissist will cut you off at the knees, even attempt to destroy you if he perceives you as an obstacle to his feverish drive toward ultimate power, control and omnipotence." (from FREEING YOURSELF FROM THE NARCISSIST IN YOUR LIFE by Linda Martinez-Lewi, Ph.D.) brbr Does this description sound like anybody that you know? Your spouse? Your boss? Your co-worker? So, how does one recognize a "truly toxic narcissist?" According to this insightful book there are certain signs to look out for: "Displays an extreme sense of grandiosity and superiority. Is highly manipulative, exploitive, and deceptive in all of his relationships. Places his personal and professional needs over the needs of others. Is captivated by his delusions of limitless power and perfection. Easily lies without any qualm or guilt. Is incapable of true empathy-the ability to deeply feel and appreciate another persons emotional state." brbr It was my misfortune to work with a fellow who fit every single one of these descriptions. This book will help you to recognize this type of person before it is too late. brbr What makes them so dangerous? They only care about themselves. brbr Is this sounding familiar? Do you know one?"br brDaytondailynews.com brbr "You will know a narcissist when you see one: he or she loves to hog the spotlight. Those afflicted with this severe personality disorder are usually impressive and charismatic people: they beguile and enchant us with their magic. They never tire of talking about their experiences or projects which are always extraordinary. But they are totally lacking in empathy. Just try to discuss what you are doing or share an idea while they are nervously glancing around the room to see who is looking at them. brbr Linda Martinez-Lewi, a licensed marriage and family therapist, has put together a helpful and informative book for those who want to know more about high-level narcissists: whether they be colleagues, friends, parents, or lovers. Here are some of their traits and behaviors: A grandiose sense of self-importance A preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love A belief that he or she is "special" and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people A high sense of entitlement Is interpersonally exploitative Lacks empathy Is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudesbr br The book is divided into four sections: The Great Performer, Behind the Perfect Mask, The Adoring Audience, and Response to the Great Performer. Martinez-Lewi presents illustrative material on toxic narcissists with profiles of artist Pablo Picasso, philosopher-author Ayn Rand, and architect Frank Lloyd Wright, describing them all as colorful characters whose hearts were hard and whose egos were gigantic. As the author puts it: The narcissist takes up a vast amount of psychological space, leaving only room for himself. In his presence, one is unable to breathe or move, all the available oxygen has been taken by his self- entrancement. brbr Because of this pattern, narcissists make no distinction between themselves and others: everyone is at their service and disposal. Since all who come into their orbit are just extras in a private movie, they are expendable. Narcissists rarely seek therapy, and their relationships usually end badly. The show just keeps moving from one place to another. It is a lonely existence." brbr Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat, SpiritualityAndPractice.com Product Description bCombining clinical analysis with psychological profiles of famous narcissists, here is an indispensable guide to recognizing, coping with, and ultimately overcoming the destructive behavior of narcissists./b br/br/ Everybody needs some healthy narcissism. But in a society obsessed with appearance, wealth, and status, it's easy for problematic narcissists to thrive. Many people who seem to "have it all" are suffering from one of the most common- and overlooked-personality disorders today: high level narcissism. Typified by an obsession with perfection, a desperate need for admiration, and a willingness to use and exploit others for personal gain, high level narcissism can spell devastation for anyone who crosses the narcissist's path. br/br/ In iFreeing Yourself from the Narcissist in Your Life/i, psychotherapist Linda Martinez-Lewi presents an in-depth and supportive plan for identifying, understanding, and dealing with high level narcissistic behavior in those close to you. Martinez-Lewi helps you to liberate yourself from draining personal relationships with narcissists, and shows how to regain a sense of peace, balance, and well-being. br/br/ Drawing on detailed profiles of famous narcissists, including Pablo Picasso, Frank Lloyd Wright, Armand Hammer, and Ayn Rand, as well as expertly rendered case studies from her private practice as a psychotherapist, Martinez-Lewi shows how to: br/br/ - understand where narcissistic behavior comes from; u learn to spot narcissistic traits, even in the early stages of relationships;br/ - realize why attempting to change a narcissist is fruitless; andbr/ - protect yourself from the narcissist's opportunism, manipulative behavior, and lack of empathy.

Customer Reviews: Read 29 more reviews... A Source of Support and Highly Informative--Divorcing A Narcissist November 21, 2008 6 out of 6 found this review helpful This book has been a great resource for me as I move through the tremendous challenges of divorcing a narcissist. I have been married to this guy for twenty years. You could ask:"What took you so long?" It took me a long time to realize that my soon to be ex-husband is a narcissist. Yes, he is a charming, take charge guy who has been successful in the world. He is full of confidence but also completely self-absorbed and superior. When things went wrong or mistakes were made, he always blamed me. I came to think that it was my fault. This man has a forceful personality and can be very persuasive. I have spent the last year in therapy. My therapist is helping me work through this painful process and to reclaim my own identity. I have recently read this clear, well written book which she recommended. I have learned a great deal about the narcissist as a result: what makes them tick, how they manipulate and deceive others to get their goals met, their total lack of empathy. The book provided me with a number of effective strategies for handling narcissists successfully. I am well informed now and feel more empowered, facing the divorce after reading this book. Tough read November 19, 2008 0 out of 7 found this review helpful I got this book to get a better understanding how to heal from the narcissist I was dating for years. This book has a lot of stories, but really is not very helpful. It is very hard to read it does not flow. I would not recommend this book. Compelling, Informative, Very Helpful in Handling Narcissists Daily November 14, 2008 5 out of 5 found this review helpful Compelling, engaging, informative book in which the narcissist comes to life in his or her full glory. Highly accessible to the reader. I now know how to identify the narcissist, understand what makes him tick and what drives him/her. Case studies are fascinating and informative. Powerful strategies for handling narcissists with confidence, poise and first rate knowledge. NARCISISSM November 2, 2008 7 out of 7 found this review helpful If there is a narcissist in your life this is the book for you! This book is great at explaining the make-up character of a narcissist. It's amazing to read after having lived with someone like this for years very helpful at understanding all the craziness you may have endured. The best part is understanding that the craziness is not your own but that caused by the narcissist! I would highly recommend this book to anyone who thinks they may have been living with a narcissit (or may still be). It is a huge help in healing the "wounds" inflicted by someone like this. An Essential If You Are Living With A Narcissist October 22, 2008 8 out of 8 found this review helpful br /This book has helped me to make an important decision. After five years of living with a narcissistic boyfriend and dealing with a lot of emotional pain and a number of physical stress symptoms, I knew that I had to change my life. After seeing an excellent therapist and reading this book, I knew it was past time to leave my demanding, manipulative boyfriend. Six months later, my life is very different. I feel calmer, more secure within myself and less on edge. My physical symptoms are gone and I feel great relief and freedom. A friend of mine who helped see me through the break-up crisis recommended this book. I am very grateful. The author has a deep understanding of the narcissistic personality---the childhood origins, the core chacteristics, their relationship style, their total lack of empathy. The book is highly informative with many clear examples. I felt like the author was speaking to me directly as I read. She placed many tools and effective strategies in my hands for dealing with the narcissists in my life. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is living with a narcissist.

Copyright 2007 White Hat Communications.
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