Sadism in Sadistic and Narcissistic Personality Disorders

Sam Vaknin

Abstract

Sadism in Sadistic and Narcissistic Personality Disorders

Narcissists rarely enjoy inflicting pain for no reason as do sexual sadists. Narcissists act sadistically when behaving this way generates or yields Narcissistic Supply and in order to punish sources of narcissistic supply who are perceived by the narcissist to be intentionally frustrating and withholding. Sadists are masters of abuse by proxy and ambient abuse. They terrorize and intimidate even their nearest and dearest into doing their bidding. They create an aura and atmosphere of unmitigated yet diffuse dread and consternation. This they achieve by promulgating complex "rules of the house" that restrict the autonomy of their dependants (spouses, children, employees, patients, clients, etc.). They have the final word and are the ultimate law. They must be obeyed, no matter how arbitrary and senseless are their rulings and decisions. Most sadists are fascinated by gore and violence. They are vicarious serial killers: they channel their homicidal urges in socially acceptable ways by "studying" and admiring historical figures such as Hitler, for instance. They love guns and other weapons, are fascinated by death, torture, and martial arts in all their forms.