How are Narcissists Made: Is it Trauma or Genetic? Here's What Dr. Salerno Thinks
How are Narcissists Made: Is it Trauma or Genetic? Here's What Dr. Salerno Thinks  
Podcast: Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse
Published On: Mon Dec 08 2025
Description: Is narcissism caused by genetics or trauma? Ever heard “narcissists act that way because of bad parenting" or “because they’ve experienced trauma?” This week, Dr. Peter Salerno returns to challenge everything you thought you knew about the cause of narcissistic personality disorder. We're diving into the controversial science of heritability. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENTFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here.MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW 🔹 Stuck in cognitive dissonance? Are you struggling with the decision to leave and wondering why you can’t? Dr. Salerno reveals why waiting for certainty keeps you trapped, how to make the hardest decision of your life without knowing if it's "right," and why almost no one regrets leaving once they do.  👉 Get immediate access to this extended interview.MORE ABOUT DR. PETER SALERNOInstagram: @DrPeterSalernoYouTube: Dr. Peter SalernoWebsiteBooks: The Nature and Nurture of Narcissism: Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder from the Perspective of Gene - Environment InteractionTraumatic Cognitive Dissonance: Healing from an Abusive Relationship with a Disordered Personality'Cruelty by Nature: The Science of Intentional AbuseDR. PETER SALERNO is a retired clinical psychologist with an expert understanding of personality pathology, narcissistic abuse recovery, and the genetic components of personality disorders.Submit your question to be answered on air here!Break free from narcissistic abuse with ReclaimYou. The app that's like having Dr. Kerry as your personal coach in your pocket 24/7. Get personalized support, healing exercises, and expert guidance whenever you need it. Join the waitlist now and be first to reclaim your life at studio.com/drkerryResourcesReclaimYou: Dr. Kerry's AI-powered coaching appThe Complete Recovery Collection: Narcissistic abuse resourcesFirst Steps to Leaving: Online self-paced digital courseToxic-Free Relationship Club: Live coaching & community supportFollow Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. As an Amazon affiliate, commission is earned from qualifying purchases.This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number.