Ep 26: Malignant Narcissists in Politics | Their Rise and Fall to Power

In this episode of The Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) unpack the dangerous dynamics of malignant narcissism in political leadership. We first explore how these leaders rise to power, the psychological factors that enable their ascent, and the societal conditions that make populations susceptible to their charm. We introduce the narcoticizing and honeymoon phases of their reign where the malignant charmer woos their adoring audience. We then explore the characteristics that define malignant narcissist leaders, including how they navigate crises, the corruptibility of their conscience, and their devolution into psychotic thought processes. Further expounding on the dangers of their paranoia and their need for enemies, we share how no one escapes unscathed from these types in leadership. Our discussion concludes with reflections about the aftermath of the malignant narcissist’s reign, and the recovery and healing process from the trauma they inflict.

Chapters 00:00 Intro to Malignant Narcissism in Leadership 02:56 Factors Enabling their Rise to Power 06:51 The Appeal of the Authoritarian Leader 08:46 The Narcoticizing Phase 11:13 The Honeymoon Phase 13:56 Characteristics of Malignant Narcissist Leaders 17:24 Decision Making and Crises 20:30 Corruptible Conscience 21:08 Paranoia and Psychosis in Power 24:20 The Need for Enemies 27:04 Life Cycle and End of their Reign 33:21 Rising from the Ashes of Narcissism