podcast

How are Narcissists Made: Is it Trauma or Genetic? Here’s What Dr. Salerno Thinks

December 8, 2025

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Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse
Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse
How are Narcissists Made: Is it Trauma or Genetic? Here's What Dr. Salerno Thinks
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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 SEGMENT

Find 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 SALERNO

  • Instagram: @DrPeterSalerno
  • YouTube: Dr. Peter Salerno
  • Website

Books: The Nature and Nurture of Narcissism: Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder from the Perspective of Gene – Environment Interaction

Traumatic Cognitive Dissonance: Healing from an Abusive Relationship with a Disordered Personality

Cruelty by Nature: The Science of Intentional Abuse

DR. 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!

Resources

Follow Dr. Kerry!

Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist & author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism.

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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.

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