The Lived Experiences of Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)
Department
Counseling
Date of Award
8-14-2024
Abstract
This qualitative study investigated the common themes in Adlerian Sandtrays of individuals who had reportedly been raised by a narcissistic parent. Five participants were given five prompts to process through an Adlerian Sandtray lens to gather themes. The researcher observed, interviewed, and documented the sand trays. The process not only gathered a collective list of themes experienced by narcissistic abuse survivors but also allowed them to process their journey through the sandtrays. The findings of this study showed that there were common themes of experiencing anxiety/depression, feeling not good enough, the need to be a pleaser, relationship issues, avoiding conflicts, and grandparents who were also narcissists and highlighted the impact of being raised by a narcissist. The use of sandtray allowed the survivors the opportunity to create a voice in the sand to their lived experiences. The results of the research study offer insight and, hopefully, awareness of how narcissistic abuse during childhood can greatly impact individuals throughout their lives.
Advisor
LaVelle Hendricks
Subject Categories
Counseling Psychology | Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Citation
Reyna, Valerie, "The Lived Experiences of Narcissistic Abuse Survivors" (2024). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 1203.
https://digitalcommons.tamuc.edu/etd/1203
