From Abracadabra to Zombies
reader comments: Indigo children
Oct 15 2003
The proponents of the Indigo Child theory have mistaken a known
psychological disorder for some kind of spiritual transcendence. In fact,
the fundamental traits of the Indigo Child are comparable to the diagnostic
criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder, a condition recognized by
the American Psychiatric Association:
"They come into the world with a feeling of royalty (and often act like it)."
- Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements).
"They have a feeling of 'deserving to be here,' and are surprised when others don't share that."
- Is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her.
"Self-worth is not a big issue. They often tell the parents 'who they are.'"
- Requires excessive admiration.
"They simply will not do certain things; for example, waiting in line is difficult for them."
- Has a sense of entitlement, i.e., unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with his or her expectations.
"They get frustrated with systems that are ritually oriented and don't require creative thought."
- Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes.
"They often see better ways of doing things, both at home and in school, which makes them seem like 'system busters' (nonconforming to any system)."
- Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love.
"They seem antisocial unless they are with their own kind. If there are no others of like consciousness around them, they often turn inward, feeling like no other human understands them. School is often extremely difficult for them socially."
- Believes that he or she is "special" and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions).
"They will not respond to 'guilt' discipline ('Wait till your father gets home and finds out what you did')."
- Lacks empathy: is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others.
"They are not shy in letting you know what they need."
- Is interpersonally exploitative, i.e., takes advantage of others to achieve his or her own ends.
John Herrero
reply: Some cynics might say that this narcissistic personality disorder is an apt description of many therapists! I wouldn't, of course, but some might.
Indigo children
