Differentiating Between Healthy and Narcissistic Relationships

In this podcast episode, Dr. Romani and Alex Cooper discuss how to differentiate healthy relationships from narcissistic ones in the context of dating. They address common misconceptions about narcissism, such as equating it with vanity or selfishness. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the nuance and complexity in identifying narcissistic behavior. A healthy relationship is described as respectful, compassionate, safe, and characterized by open communication and compromise. On the other hand, a narcissistic relationship is marked by inconsistent, manipulative, and invalidating behavior. The episode highlights the challenges of recognizing red flags early on in dating and the importance of being mindful of one's own needs and boundaries.