Where does Narcissism come from?

Answer 1

genetics

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The etiology of Narcissism is debated. Some consider there is a possible genetic predisposition underlaying this disorder. However, many more researchers agree that a person who develops into a fullblown narcissist does not suffer from a genetic disorder, but was abused, maligned, and unloved or offered love inconsistently as an infant, baby or child. The "golden child" syndrome is frequently mentioned as a formative N experience (where the parent projects all their own perceived deficiencies onto the perfection and perfect characteristics - whether real or imaginied - of their child) as well as experiences in very early infancy, babyhood, and early childhood that were somehow harsh and damaging enough to create an unforgiving and cruelly judgemental superego within the narcissist. The typical characteristics of narcissism are actually a reaction formation against this voice of cruel, impossible judging that accompanies the emptiness of the narcissist's soul, as they knew very early on they were not 'enough' to stand up to the vicious voice of the superego.

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If you're looking for the etymology of the word, check Ovid's Metamorphoses, the story of Narcissus and Echo.