All posts by Dr. Simon

Discerning Character Requires Certain Skills

Discerning decency of character in our times is a challenge. With all manner of character dysfuntion “normalized,” we’ve largely become desensitized, even to the most egregious forms.

Narcissistic Pomposity and Pretense

Pomposity and pretense are common in narcissists. Sometimes, it’s an act. But it can also reflect grandiose, nearly delusional beliefs.

The 10 Qualities of Wholesome Character

Wholesome character is in particularly short supply these days. The problem is not just narcissism. And it’s not just antisociality. Character disturbances encompass a wide spectrum of problematic traits and behaviors that vary in types and degrees of severity. It’s bad enough that we have such a shortage of wholesome character. And it’s bad enough that behavior once regarded as unusual, unbecoming, or even outrageous, has become normalized. But what’s even more appalling is that we seem to have forgotten what good character is all about and what it takes to cultivate and promote it. 

Mind Control and Heart Control

Mind control is about holding sway over what a person thinks. But mind control can morph into heart control. Manipulators know this.

Narcissistic Rages and Their Forms and Causes

Narcissistic rages are common in abusive relationships. But characterizing every rager as “thin-skinned” is a potentially fatal mistake.

Charm and the Potential for Harm

Charm should generally sound an alarm, because its aim is to disarm, and that always carries the potential for harm, whether intended or not.

Narcissists Exaggerate Just About Everything

Narcissists exaggerate to advance their image-promoting agendas. Tolerating or enabling this behavior harms everyone, even the narcissist.

The Many Forms of Violence

There are many forms of violence. Physical, emotional, and verbal, are just a few. But all violence harms, and fuels a destructive cycle.