The parent calls attention to the child's loving gestures and asks others to watch. This is another way of taking the love away. Without knowing it, the child becomes aware that his very warmth and affection itself is made into something for the parents' aggrandizement. This is often the precursor to the superficial warmth and charm of the narcissistic individual, so frequently noted in the literature. There is no other motive or motivation in their lives.
Fame is better than notoriety, but notoriety is preferable to lack of attention.
An NPD describing his NPD is seeking to secure narcissistic supply by doing so. Intentions don't count - actions do. By exposing myself I am asking to be accepted as I am. If I will be accepted unconditionally - this, indeed, may be a first in my life. Inc. All rights reserved.