The Grandiosity/Entitlement Schema

The Grandiosity/Entitlement schema is a psychological concept that refers to a set of beliefs and expectations about oneself that can develop in response to early experiences of being overvalued or of receiving excessive praise or attention. People with this schema may believe that they are superior to others and may have an exaggerated sense of their own abilities and entitlements.

There are several key characteristics of the Grandiosity/Entitlement schema. These include:

1. A sense of superiority: People with this schema may believe that they are superior to others and may have an exaggerated sense of their own abilities and entitlements.
2. A belief in one’s own specialness: The sense of superiority may be accompanied by a belief that one is special or unique and should be treated differently from others.
3. A sense of entitlement: The belief in one’s own specialness may lead to a sense of entitlement, as people with this schema may expect to receive special treatment or privileges.
4. Difficulty with empathy: The sense of superiority and belief in one’s own specialness may make it difficult for people with this schema to empathize with others and to see things from other people’s perspectives.

The Grandiosity/Entitlement schema can have a significant impact on a person’s relationships and can make it difficult for them to form and maintain healthy, fulfilling connections with others. It can also contribute to the development of other psychological issues, such as arrogance and a lack of awareness of the impact of one’s actions on others. It is important for people with this schema to work on developing their empathy and on recognizing that they are not superior to others.

How does The Grandiosity/Entitlement Schema relate to Attachment Theory?

The Grandiosity/Entitlement schema can be seen as an example of an insecure attachment style, specifically an anxious attachment style. People with an anxious attachment style tend to have a negative view of themselves and a strong need for reassurance from others. They may also have a fear of abandonment and a tendency to become excessively clingy or demanding in relationships.

The Grandiosity/Entitlement schema can be thought of as a specific type of anxious attachment style that is characterized by a sense of superiority and entitlement. This schema can influence how people feel about themselves and their relationships with others.