Psychology In Seattle Podcast Schemas, Narcissism, and Angry Kirk
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Jan 14, 2026 Dive into the complexities of human behavior as Dr. Kirk explores the idea of having multiple schemas shaped by childhood trauma. Discover how traits of borderline and narcissism can overlap, and the subtle nuances of covert narcissism. Kirk critiques the tendency of novice clinicians on social media to label characters like Will Hunting, asserting that his emotional struggles stem more from avoidant attachment than narcissism. It's a fascinating discussion that sheds light on empathy, self-control, and the misconceptions in modern psychology.
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Trauma Can Produce Many Schemas
- People with severe childhood trauma can score high across many or all 18 schema domains on screening measures.
- Kirk Honda emphasizes that broad endorsement often reflects trauma-driven patterns rather than discrete, isolated schemas.
Narcissistic-Looking Items Can Mask Trauma
- Items that look like entitlement or narcissism can reflect chronic frustration from trauma rather than true narcissistic pathology.
- Honda notes irritability or rule-breaking may stem from trauma-driven hypervigilance, not baseline grandiosity.
Treat Online Schema Tests As Starting Points
- Use online schema tests only as a starting point and follow up with an expert clinician.
- Kirk Honda advises further clinical assessment because measures are crude and details matter.