Nature versus Nurture: Where Did All This Narcissism Come From?

The Covert Narcissism Podcast

Are narcissists born or made? In this foundational episode, we unpack the complex roots of narcissism through the lens of both nature and nurture. We explore how temperament, early childhood environment, and relational trauma interact to shape narcissistic behaviors — and why it’s not always a direct path.

You’ll learn:

• How biological traits like sensitivity or the need for validation can become liabilities in emotionally unsafe environments

• Why narcissism is often a learned survival strategy — and not always from overtly abusive parenting

• That not everyone raised in a narcissistic home becomes a narcissist — and some narcissists weren’t raised by narcissists at all

• How to understand the difference between narcissistic traits and full-blown personality disorder

• Why the origins of someone’s narcissism don’t excuse the harm they cause — and what that means for your healing

Whether you’re still in the relationship or long out, this episode offers clarity, validation, and direction. Because you don’t have to figure this out alone. And understanding the “why” helps you stop taking on the impossible task of fixing it.