Succession: A Psychologist Breaks Down The Narcissism in Each Character

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DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR CLINICAL CARE. PLEASE CONSULT A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. THIS VIDEO DISCUSSES NARCISSISM IN GENERAL.
THE VIDEO DOES NOT REFER TO ANY SPECIFIC PERSON, AND SHOULD NOT BE USED TO REFER TO ANY SPECIFIC PERSON, AS HAVING NARCISSISM. PERMISSION IS NOT GRANTED TO LINK TO OR REPOST THIS VIDEO, ESPECIALLY TO SUPPORT AN ALLEGATION THAT THE MAKERS OF THIS VIDEO BELIEVE, OR SUPPORT A CLAIM, THAT A SPECIFIC PERSON IS A NARCISSIST. THAT WOULD BE AN UNAUTHORIZED MISUSE OF THE VIDEO AND THE INFORMATION FEATURED IN IT.

[@enraegen561]

I watched the show with my ex. His comment: "It would be so cool to be part of this family. I think I would be really good at this!" I was mortified.

[@katek9603]

That’s a bit like when this dodgy guy I was dating told me his favorite movies were Wolf of Wall Street and Catch Me if You Can. I heeded the warning thank goodness. Happy to see this guy is your ex.

[@trinap.8904]

RUN!!

[@kikib.6150]

RUNNNNNN.....away REALLLLLLLY fast was also my response. Raised by, married to surrounded by.....for the last 58 years. Save yourself and start anew for a fabulous life before your soul gets slowly drained from your kind being.

[@operadoc]

Fortunately he's your ex

[@melodyal3357]

Omg I think that's the reddest of red flights you could get. Someone wanting this tells me that he may be narcissist one on one. Your luck is that he's your ex!

[@AhmedEtman79]

"Everyone underestimates Tom and that's a mistake." That aged like fine wine.

[@Δ-Δ-Δ-Δ]

Doctah knew what she was talking about.

[@ezmokonnen]

Tom was a master at compartmentalization he was completely broken from his wife’s betrayal but he never let it truly interfere with his own ambitions

[@brynnleapierce5600]

You didn't mention the “Mother of the kids” though you see her rarely who truly was void of any maternal instincts a cold, frigid emotionally empty woman who is all about self-preservation!

[@donnalittle3622]

When she told Shiv that she was never meant to have children it really hit home for me. It has taken me a very long time to deal with this in my own life.

[@chayo4537]

Just switch her position with a man. And you're not gonna have a problem. People don't mind that energy in men

[@brynnleapierce5600]

@@donnalittle3622 unimaginable trauma for any child to navigate through, & one of the deepest wounds one could experience. My compassion runs deep for you.

[@donnalittle3622]

Thank you so much for your kindness. It was like a jolt hearing that in the mother's dialog for the "hen party". (I tend to think that I am alone when obviously, I am not...) Thank you again for your caring comment.

[@operadoc]

​@@chayo4537 I think her energy would be toxic in a man as well.

[@SilentTrip]

Can this ve a series? Analysing narcissism in fiction? I really love it

[@velvetgardenia]

Love that idea! How about Wuthering Heights-Heathcliff + Cathy?

[@alice__miceli]

YESSS

[@readymusicstudios1206]

Great Idea!

[@chayo4537]

Fact is scarier than fiction

[@Grouchbox]

Agreed! I would LOVE to see this happen!

[@theresacane6564]

My ex was a total Tom Wambsgans. Completely confusing how much he’d perfected the “everyman” and bumbling nerdy guy trope. It was hard not to trust him but something in my gut always questioned how real it was. And I found out the hard way it wasn’t.

[@emmaslyons]

Thinking Boris Johnson

[@velvetsingingstudio3720]

Is he the covert narcissist?

[@lpycb42]

This is the most accurate analysis of the Roys ever. Shiv is Logan’s daughter for sure. All of them together are like a 3 headed monster that create Logan. Kendall has the business acumen, Roman has the charisma and negotiation skills, and Shiv has the tenacity and ruthlessness of her father.

[@rheaelise4540]

Finally someone who agrees with me about Shiv! It always bothered me extremely that she acted so altruistic when in fact she was the most horrible. She would throw anyone under the bus. See how she sacrificed Kendall and Tom. At least Roman and Kendall showed moments of genuine care and concern for their siblings. Shiv is dangerous because she can trick you into thinking she cares about you and then slice you up. I think she's a little psychopathic

[@melodyal3357]

Exactly. Unfortunately watching Shiv she reminded me so soo much of my ex boyfriend. Scary resemblance. That's why it was for me awfully hard to understand what kind of relationship I was being in for years. These kind of narcissistics are extremly hard to detect; they make you think they love you meanwhile they manipulate and use you for their egoistics needs in every way possible. So in the end when you love them honestly and deeply, you think it's both ways, that it's mutual, but then when their true face reveals (because eventually it does), you run from them and you're breaking up with them. But then, they gaslight you, puting that mask again, convince you how much they care for you and love you, etc...and this wicked circle can last for years (which was unfortunately my case). Absolutely awful. I lost best years of my life ,,for" that person, all my youth. Now I understand everything more but the damage is there and I feel it.

[@rheaelise4540]

@@melodyal3357 I'm so sorry you went through this. Yes it's the worst because they act altruistic so you wouldn't guess at the outset unlike Roman and Kendall's bombastic ways. I think how you described your relationship is how Shiv and Tom's marriage went. She cheated on him and then wanted an open marriage even though he didn't. Then we he starts seeing other women she's upset. She only wants an open marriage if SHE can see other people. So selfish and manipulative

[@misssoso5859]

How is she the most horrible when Logan exists? 😂

[@rheaelise4540]

@@misssoso5859 because I thought it was a given that Logan is a psycho and therefore not in the conversation at all?

[@aahana4931]

@@misssoso5859 logan is irredeemable lmao, we've known that from the start tho. Also every character on this show is horrible to some extent

[@lorawhitener4352]

Loved this! I have often dissected these characters myself! I would be interested in your take on Logan's previous wife Lady Caroline (Kendall, Roman, and Shiv's mother) If you recall, Kendall tried to open up to her about the terrible accident in England and her response was something like "Can we talk in the morning? Mummy is tired" and then she totally deserted him! Funny story... when I was in New York last summer we came back to our hotel around 1 a.m and they were shooting Succession across the street. We watched them film a scene with all 4 siblings and then I was able to talk to them briefly. I especially love Shiv's character and Sarah Snook was so gracious and sweet, as well as the others. It was a real honor to get to tell them how much I love their work.

[@crispusattucks4007]

What scene were they filming? I saw them film at the 42nd street library

[@gigibtsurvivor3348]

Mad Men was clearly about a sex addicted narcissist. And I agree, Succession lands the many forms of narcissistic expression.

[@blackquiver]

Mad men. Never heard of it. Going to have to look it up.

[@possessedslig]

​@@blackquiver living under a rock? One of the greatest TV shows ever

[@christopherroberts5306]

I kind of disagree tbh. Narcasstic wouldn't be the first word to describe Donald Draper. First off he's far more empathetic and capable of having an intimate relationship than those on succession. Secondly his sex addiction mostly came from him hating himself and being ashamed of his past. Also at the end it shows he's capable of changing for the better. Something most true narcissists can never do

[@fadplastic]

@@christopherroberts5306 You mean the ambiguous ending where it’s implied he might using the hippie movement to sell Coca Cola? 😊

[@christopherroberts5306]

@@fadplastic yeah it's ambiguous but the end kinda implies Don has accepted himself and his past. He is finally at peace and ready to move on

[@oober3690]

Succession is fascinating and exhausting at the same time. I feel like I'm watching my family' dynamics playing out. I cannot binge the show because of how much it matches my family's behavior. I really hope we can see some measure of humanity win over in one of the characters. Maybe one of them will somehow see the light and just walk away.

[@rainforestblessed5031]

These are horrible people. I started watching because of all the theatrical types of praise: acting, plots, camera angles, and whatever else is considered to be well done here. But these are Horrible people. People like this should be banished to a remote island (planet) and just relish enjoying each others company ... have a ball enjoying yourselves. Or better still vanish from existing altogether. Who wants to watch these monsters? No matter how great the cinematography, or Whatever. This is time from your life you've lost forever. Run. And if they're in your actual life, get a new life. Leave them behind. Cut them off. People like these don't deserve to breathe the same air as actual humans.

[@rayarena879]

OMG, my sincerest condolences. How horrible for you to have a family like that.

[@lindawhitehead6149]

I know what you mean about exhausting..

[@kimberly3706s]

That’s the thing - it’s one thing if it’s a social friend or romantic partner and you could heed the “red flags” and remove yourself; but what if you don’t want to shut out your entire family, or these people aren’t unloved and unlovable…it’s difficult to navigate being healthy within ourselves, doing the work not to feed narcissism within ourselves as well as not suffer being perpetually injured by others. Narcissism is all around us in society, it’s never truly escapable, all we can do is recognize it (as often in ourselves as others) and work at discouraging its growth. It’s Sisyphus and the boulder, but we keep at it.

[@oober3690]

@@kimberly3706s "narcissism within ourselves". Yes. Growing up in a toxic family makes us much more susceptible to it. Years of therapy has helped me to heal that.

[@m_li_ma]

They're all pretty fucked up, but Kendall will always be my dearest. I feel like he's a forever child trapped in an adult's body and every time he tries to take more responsibility than he's usually used to, he collapses. He clings to validation constantly, and it just seems to me that he's a child who had never experienced true love and care. That scene in which he says to Logan that he's a better person than him broke my heart. I'll miss this show.

[@alonzomosley7]

I watched Succession it was only in the last series that it dawned on me ,Logan Roy was a caricature of my narcissistic father .I heard Brian Cox discussing Logan ,who is unable to express love to his children ,perhaps through never having received it himself. You can see there is something sad about him.There is something quite locked within him .He obviously wanted to prove something in relationship to his family .I think it always comes down to family.Imagine being a human being whose genuine love is expressed with so much cruelty .I cant believe a TV series gave me an insight into my fathers behaviour.

[@defragsbin]

Logan's back story is also interesting -- he had deep marks on his back (hence the back story ho ho etc.) when we saw him swimming. It has never been mentioned since, but I suspect his parents (or his father in particular) beat him badly, and he grew up twisted because of it.

[@rixatrix]

I love Succession because it lets me laugh about the same behavior I was raised with. I’m grateful to be able to laugh about it, after many years of therapy, and the show makes it so clear how ridiculous these people are. Still, I’d rather have the narcissists in my life behind the TV screen rather than in everyday interactions.

[@Dreamin995]

Yea it’s almost therapeutic watching it…

[@LloydWaldo]

I feel that Connor has had some of the most interesting development this year. Willa turned out to be her own person, and he also seemed to realize that his father was forever out of reach.

[@MegaDiva1999]

Absolutely. I feel like Willa is his secret weapon and a lot stronger and more perceptive than she appears.A pity that we wont see that play out as this masterpiece draws to a close

[@MsVshizzle]

It’s actually good to see Connor rise in confidence with Willa by his side. He’s been in a funk, albeit a privileged funk, most of the series

[@xcisnerosx]

I think it’s because Connor Roy was interested in politics from a very young age.

[@barbiesergio7663]

I felt the worst for Con. So much abandonment.

[@moniquejackson7741]

Awesome breakdown. My nervous system can't handle watching shows like this, but break downs like this are so critical to seeing the Narcissism around us. Thank you!

[@Bawkr]

Yea too soon for me as well. Still live with them. Maybe once I get away from them.

[@memento81]

I find it very cathartic to see shows with massive narcissists being each others pain and undoing for once. Succession and White Lotus do that masterfully.

[@kristinemajchrzak5222]

I agree 100%

[@mac-ju5ot]

Too much for me don't mention the republican who ruined my nephew's christening for mem

[@jeu-de-paume]

Dr. Ramani, you're my fave! But I am seeing one character missing here, who is a source of endless entertainment for me! He also illustrates the narcissistic family dynamic so well. *I'm talking about Greg's "gramps"!* That's also a character that might give people some pause, but I'm pegging him as thoroughly narcissistic and very much part of the 'Roy' brand of dysfunction. *He displays patterns of both vulnerable and communal narcissism,* being bitterly jealous of his brother's success, and devaluing everything that's associated with Logan in order to console his fragile ego (rather than because of his strong moral compass, as gramps himself believes it). Gramps poses as a perennial victim of the world's unfairness, and enjoys taking the 'holier than thou' attitude toward his brother's family-yet he also enjoys the financial benefits of their success, without once expressing a desire to decouple himself from this 'dirty' enterprise. His ultimatum to Greg is also an example of his narcissism. While it's couched in the language of care (for Greg's soul, presumably), it is nothing more than an attempt to control and punish his grandchild who is choosing his more successful brother over him-an insult to his injury. All this is, of course, a very logical consequence of the Roy family's inter-generational patterns. Because gramps dealt with devaluing his whole life (and is now firmly positioned as the 'failure' in his family system dominated by his brother), he had to come up with defense mechanisms. Performing his moral superiority toward the people who treat him as inferior seems to be his jam!

[@melodyal3357]

👌👏👏👏

[@dwa3210]

Yes!!! So, I'm not the only one who saw that!!! So convenient of him to point fingers at Logan while he's benefiting from being a Roy! Meanwhile he's telling Greg all this crazy stuff about his uncle as if he's gonna help Greg find work and a place. He too just dangles the carrot over his head just like Logan does to his children. Gramps is NO different than his brother. It's funny that I said the same thing about his need to demoralize Logan while not distancing himself from the money and stocks he receives from RoyCo.

[@tangodaze]

Thank you. A rarely found parallel to mine experience. I had to stop watching it in season two. It was like pouring salt on multiple wounds.

[@jeu-de-paume]

@@tangodaze I relate to your experience. Succession can be pretty triggering for me, but I'm still able to detach. Now I've recently started watching Mad Men (after hearing dr. Ramani talk about it for years), and that show triggers me so much more for some reason-especially where it depicts sexism, classism, racism, and hierarchical violence. I notice more anxiety after watching it, and it makes me wonder about the full extent of the show's emotional impact on me.

[@OMGitsShrimp]

I disagree with your take on Greg’s Grandfather, Ewan. I think it’s unfair to characterize almost all of his actions and motivations as having narcissistic origins. I don’t think he is a narcissist. I think he can be hypocritical, and has an ego, but I think he’s more self aware of this; especially in his eulogy at Logan’s funeral he said he “tries” and that somewhere along the way, Logan stopped “trying”. And that’s the difference. Ewan, despite his unfavorable traits (perhaps as a result of their upbringing), never stopped trying. I always saw him as: “yea I’m kind of mean and not everything I do will be nice and right but I try not to succumb to the worst parts of myself. He had more of an awareness about who his brother was, their upbringing and himself. He does sound “holier than thou” but I think thats just because he’s an elder and older individuals tend to be ‘know it alls’ especially toward younger people. And honestly I don’t think we’ve seen enough of him or delved into him as a character, for me to feel comfortable giving him that label. He has some shitty qualities but for me that doesn’t make him a narcissist.

[@victoriacorcoran1258]

So right, the way Shiv views Tom, the way Tom treats Greg, Kendall's broken relationship with his beautiful ex wife, Roman so screwed up, Connor deluded, asking his Dad for a spare hundred million, Logan's ex wife Caroline, the mother of the 3 clearly so over it all for peace (her back story, no doubt very interesting)…I still find myself having most empathy for Kendall

[@amarbyrd2520]

Caroline! Stewy! Part 2 of this brilliant "media analysis of a cultural phenomenon so many of us are dealing with" series, please 🙏 😀 👏

[@deseuryderia]

roman roy has single-handedly brought my “i could fix him” mindset back 💀

[@erinmurphyart4590]

I like the doctor’s videos before I even watch them. She deserves it.

[@bellaf7774]

I love how it feels like I’m listening to an educated friend talk to me personally ❤

[@ambermoon719]

I have the biggest soft spot for Kendall. He’s wounded and you see the most humanity in his essence. And cousin Greg I think makes being socially awkward adorable. Jeremy Stone the actor who plays Kendall has a deep & sensitive soul.

[@guess_who18]

strong*

[@seanyrobbo1]

I disagree, he's an awful father first and foremost, and literally kills someone and carries on with his life like nothing happened after briefly feeling sorry for himself. I think he's vulnerable yes, but he also has plenty of opportunities to take the right path and consistently does the opposite until the very end. He's also the only one (other than Tom maybe) that actually lashes out pysically on several occasions due to slights on his ego, he's just a dangerous a narcissist as the rest of them.

[@cekw3284]

i can’t believe you didn’t do the Roy kids’ mum !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! truly the most blatant example of a neglectful narcissist parent i’ve ever seen on tv

[@shoshannabrooks2722]

😀😀😃Ahhhh!! My daughter called me all excited almost screaming and said, Dr. Ramani just did a video breaking down our succession ppl!!! I rushed home. Got some drinks, snacks & sat down to watch this!!!🙌🏼🥳💜thank you for always doing such an amazing job Dr Ramani!! We all love you in my household.

[@rosseryankeegirl]

I'm screaming THE BEST example of complete narcissism in a family dynamic!!!! So much so that, I would say after maybe the 2nd episode or so, I was oooh I wonder if Dr.Ramani watches this show🤭🤭and I think about you every episode since😂thank you for always keeping it truthful. Kendall would have never been a good husband or father to anyone. He's too traumatized. Wow Shiv's review😮! Spot on! Her cult is her siblings and husband.

[@jocelynco1624]

thank you for making this long awaited video about the characters in Succession.

[@michele0324]

You had me at "Entitlement and rich boy ass hole energy". ❤ I'll be binge-watching this series this weekend!

[@steffnic13]

Those kids have CPTSD above everything else. It may be creating BPD and NPD traits, but the serious trauma is at the bottom of it. Logan is beyond hope. Kendall isn’t.

[@romyaware547]

And imo, Roman isn't too. Shiv seems to be a loat case and Connor might be too delusional, but Kendall and Roman are clearly trauma survivors with CPTSD and narc traits. But they can show empathy and talk about feelings as the series progresses. I think labelling them all AS narcissistic is too simple.

[@nestorar]

Amazing analysis, Dr. Ramini…following years of therapy and watching your expert character dissecting is a most rewarding experience. Learning is my favorite sport.

[@WahkeenaSitka]

OMG YES!!!! I just started watching Succession recently, and it is a perfect example of narcissism. Definitely do more of these types of episodes, processing characters from media.

[@velvetgardenia]

This is going straight into my FAVORITES! I was hooked from the first episode, remember the wristwatch/check baseball game trainwreck of cruelty?

[@doctoramy1593]

oh yes! wow that was awful, right?

[@firehorse9996]

It was a Patek Philippe. You can't just walk into a boutique and buy one. It must be special ordered in advance and prices are NEVER mentioned on the website. And probably not in the store, either. LOL. The company's policy has always been to never advertise or engage in social media. Very exclusive. Only way I know about them is a French friend went to watchmaking school in Switerzerland and he's now working for them. A brilliant career. Makes a Rolex look like a Timex. Really, the purview of the super-rich and most elitist. Saddest part was Tom bought Logan the Patek Philippe and Logan could care less -- he gave it away as a bribe when the family signed the non-disclosure statement.

[@kimberly3706s]

@@firehorse9996 Patek Philippe watches and the company history is well known in the antique world, the watches are very desirable in the after market.

[@lolat7355]

I watched the first few seasons of Succession, but came to realize that I didn’t like any of the characters. I may have to go back and watch through this new perspective.

[@chayo4537]

You mean someone else's?

[@sand0077]

So many variations and recipes for narcissism including 'watching a narcissist blossom'. That's one flower I care not be acquainted with!

[@ladyd900]

Dr. Ramani, this was great but you have to include Logan’s ex wife and mother to the kids. The poor kids didn’t stand a chance as both parents were malignant narcissists.

[@hannal4731]

Dr. Ramani, thank you so much for doing a series of this show. I have never felt more connected to a show as someone who grew up with three other siblings, two very close in age to me and one half sibling who was just abandoned by my father. My father has chosen not to speak to me for over one year for being a truth teller. Since then, I have gotten married, began a new job, and bought a house just a mile away from where my parents live. He has ignored my calls and texts. It has been hard living not far from my mom and dad while being estranged and trying to see my enabler mom sneak her way around visiting me (which I hate). My siblings and I feel the closest to one another and at times have our moments where we are torn apart by our father. Overall, we have connected through our difficult upbringing. My brother (golden child) has a wedding coming up in June where I will be forced to face my estranged narcissistic dad and I am feeling the build up as this show progresses and the time nears. It seems that weddings are always ruined by the N-father. I am happy that you are sharing your thoughts with us!

[@PoodlesMcNoodles]

I’d LOVE to know the Succession cast and crew’s reactions to this.

[@linhuang5267]

It’s so fascinating to see the illustrations of narcissistic traits in a TV show. Thanks to the actors, the show looks so real that watching it makes me feel like watching my dad’s family of origin’s dynamics. In the meantime, it’s so triggering. Although I’m on the healing journal from the decades of mental strains, I felt strong physical stress by watching the trailer only.

[@erinward2983]

I became nauseous when she talked about the malignant narcissist. My father is a mal. narc. He has caused so much harm I'll never live the life I could've had. The abuse is so harmful and the very sensitive among us respond strongly, even when the trigger isn't identifiable. We have to help each other. These aren't actors and this isn't Hollywood. Hey, hooray to these folks for getting it right, but heck, we are real. Our show doesn't end, and we don't get to be in the credits, so until we are laid to rest. Until then, hi. 🧡💚💛💙🍀

[@angieeissa8679]

Looking great Dr. Ramani ❤🤍

[@OofWillis]

17:07 thank you for including this error. I have never seen Dr. Ramani present with anything but perfection. This makes my connection to her content even stronger.

[@farmcat3198]

When you start looking at any of these programs more closely, you see that the writers are quite skilled at communicating personality disorders through their characters. You have to know what you are looking for, however.

[@franciscocardenas5758]

🙂👍 Excellent analysis of the characters in this series. I now understand why I avoided watching Succession, I felt my stomach churning. I know that as I continue my acting classes, I will have to develop a character and this video will help me very much. Thank you, Dr. Ramani Durvasula.

[@Juju-tw7we]

IM SO SO SO SO SO HAPPY YOU MADE THSI FINALLY. THIS IS AN EXCEPTIONAL SHOW ON NARC FAMILIES AND PEOPLE!!!

[@thomaslee8088]

Oh please please please keep doing this on all your favorite shows. This is an excellent way to get introduced to new shows; a show with something real to learn from.

[@genaisaacsfiegel5466]

And for each episode…great teaching moments

[@OKKerry]

Thank you for this! For me, "Succession" is certainly the best-because-relatable series since "Madmen"; my career provided impeccable, first-hand experience in "workshops" across cultures and continents. Fight narcissism on the job if you are nuts or curious, but flight is still the recommended way to deal with toxic narcissists in personal relationships. Learning the gradient of the manipulations spectrum is helpful; and practicing targeted verbal parrying is essential. With the current levels of entitlement across frontiers, those skills should be taught in schools!

[@youngidealist]

I'm just getting into season 2 because of this videos recommendation of the show. It's giving me a lot to reflect on. Including how Dr ramani here shows an amount of uncertainty that is only a smidge less then my own about what qualifies as a narcissist. It's such a tricky landscape to tackle, unless you are willing to be as cutthroat towards narcissists as they are towards others. If the definitions can be as flexible as this, then I can own my own vulnerable narcissism as there are many poor decisions that I've made because it felt like the world was swallowing me whole and I knew for a fact that it couldn't have been mostly my fault. Of course looking back there are lots of decisions I would make differently and I could have saved myself but as hindsight is 20/20, there's still no way I could have known. I can give just as much slack to the people who hurt me as long as there's any room for them to have some sense of shame that would leave them with similar regrets. At the same time regardless of whose fault anything ever is, I'm the only one who can affect the world to protect myself that I can rely on. I'm not going to guilt myself for not having gone farther, but I am going to step up and take as much control of my life as these assholes on the show take control of everyone's life around them.

[@melodyal3357]

This was phenomenal, what an analysis, what an insight, absolutely loved it. I love Succesion, the show is nothing but pure masterpiece. From all three siblings, it is always Shiv who reminds me of my ex narcissistic manipulator. There is soo much resemblance. I saw it in the beginning but as show was developing more and more, watching the way Shiv is, was like watching the personality of my ex. As Dr. Ramani said about her; the part that is ,dangerous' is that she covers her narcissism so skilfully with her self presentation that it may be less obvious and harder to detect, but she's total snake. I had a lot of suspicions of my ex, but watching Shiv's character was one of many confirmations to understand better what kind of relationship I was being in for years. Thank you Doctor Ramani for educating us and opening our eyes. As for Succession, it would be amazing if we can hear more analyses from you (maybe concrete episodes, etc.). :))💛

[@elizabethcombs9724]

I heard a new term called “double bind.” It’s a helpful term/concept IMO when understanding narcissism.

[@AljabbarWestJava]

We hope all is well 😅 Oh my beautiful DOCTOR 😅

[@Cade805]

Dr. Ramani is alway so entertaining to listen to, makes me want to actually watch this show!

[@cygnusrays]

Brilliant show, brilliant writing, acting and characterization of the Murdoch family. I do wonder if a show of this calibre and popularity had really run it's course, or if the Murdoch's had influence over it's demise..

[@jonadol]

just finished the family therapy episode in season 1 and I immediately went to your channel. I recognized the narcissism so much because I’ve had some of the same experiences with my family and it’s such a weird thing to watch. I feel relief because I can relate to what the children are going through but it’s also triggering. Such an interesting show.

[@robingoldman5944]

Dr. Ramani, you are a gift and inspiration to us all!🥰

[@privateprivate8366]

It’s so painful to listen to this. Because I look at my own family and what it’s come to, even by way of my sister using the legal system to predate me, what an ugly mess it is. I’m generally a person who likes to produce, to make the most of a day and my life. Today, I sit here writing a letter to a judge. Time not best spent, while everything unfurls. These people run roughshod through other people’s lives and what they take, ultimately goes to squalor and waste.

[@christinesalyer600]

Think we might be related 😆 🤦‍♀️ Hang in there. 💕

[@privateprivate8366]

@@christinesalyer600 thank you. You, too.🙌🏽🙏🏽

[@chriscunningham8807]

@@christinesalyer600 Families full of cluster-B relatives act like mobsters and damage many people on the way to the top. Live next door to a mob of Russian gangsters who tick the box on all counts of being psychopathic narcissists. They even drive black cars with tinted glass and wear mobster sunglasses. The mother is mad as a hatter and incited mobbing by claiming she "felt terrorised" after slashing my plants, vandalising and stealing my property and repeatedly attacking me with her cane until it broke when I held out my arm in self-defence. It's funny to observe from a distance but terrifying, disheartening, distressing and really toxic up close. All the best dealing with twisted people and surviving with your psyche, soul and body unharmed. Bad people do a lot of damage and have a knack of projecting, denial and acting like the victim when held accountable.

[@operadoc]

I would love to see an episode where they did flashback scenes of the siblings as kids and what their experiences were like.

[@alazkaalazka6087]

Would be a cool series finale. Can also learn what really happened with Connors mom.

[@elizabethsesso9356]

a good fictional character of narcissism (Undine) is in the book titled The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton.

[@tonicobarrubias4052]

Kendall's Resting Sad Face makes me sooooo sad. What a remarkable actor.

[@beibeismombeibeismom8807]

Coming out from a toxic relationship with a Narc, I appreciate the show like Succession and Dr Ramni a lot

[@MayaRoy-u2z]

"Snivelling dilletante" 😊😊😊 Dr. R really knows how to call it!

[@lovli31]

This was so good! Amazing analysis Dr. Ramani

[@wendyhicks5685]

I see a ring on the finger- have I missed something here??? These videos have taught me so much and so relatable. Thank you!❤

[@rhondajohnson8310]

Wait what?? Dr. Ramini AND Succession?? I think my life is truly complete, yall!!

[@fluffyclouds555]

Amazing. It’s cathartic to watch Succession and satisfying to hear your analysis!

[@Dreamin995]

100%

[@luminouskaleidoscope73]

Oooh, I always love your videos on film, music, culture etc. Excellent, excellent. Got some great recommendations from you 😊

[@dynamic9560]

Been longing for this video!! 🙌🏻 Everything you said is spot on 🎯

[@LindaEll]

Love this show! This is a great analysis.

[@melaniereed3494]

So interesting! Thank you Dr. Ramani - I would love to see more of this analysis as the final season of Succession unfolds. Succession is one of those guilty pleasures that I cannot look away from. Here we can understand the profound power of fiction to understand ourselves and the world around us.

[@1MrErling]

Thanks. I needed this video, Doc. Cause I had to stop watching the show after 1.5 seasons. I had enough of the narcissism. As a teenager I reveled in the movie ''One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest''. Now as an adult, it's just sad to watch. I think these are healthy reactions on my part. Incidentally; Tom, Shiff's husband is to me the ultra deadly killer

[@tangodaze]

I’m with you!

[@vc7770]

Love this! Please do this for other shows!!!

[@mmpatriot2170]

Wow. So good. I’m on a journey with you. Understanding my role in a narcissistic family, including my own narcissism. I’m very committed to having healthy relationships now, and it turns out to be just a few. I’ve ended several unhealthy relationships in the past few years. I hadn’t heard about this show before, but I’ll definitely be watching it. Thank you.

[@Sezfluffy]

you're so self aware and like you I'm working at the narcissism in myself.

[@yuu_miran]

Good luck in your hard work, hope you will succeed.

[@chayo4537]

Wow now give yourself a pat on the back for justification

[@mmpatriot2170]

@@chayo4537 🤷‍♂️

[@christopherlarson3401]

It is a Spiritual battle. Things invisible operating in people. Great video! I am a visual learner in this world as are so many others. I love Dr Ramani’s sense of humor. She has to be sent by God to protect those of us who only want to do what is right. Belief in Jesus and choose Him over money. The common thread in all of these characters is the love of money.

[@melisentiapheiffer3034]

I believe that, too! It's definitely a spiritual war.

[@yuu_miran]

Definitely

[@happygucci5094]

You NAILED Tom!!!!! That’s what makes him soooo creepy and eerie. Tom and Gregg gave me the chills.

[@jackrippper3389]

that greeting/welcome is everything!

[@dskye2634]

Shiv was never in a committed relationship with Tom. on her wedding day she told Tom she wanted an open marriage and slept with her alternative person that night to ensure dominance from the start

[@RodrigoLobosChile]

I didn't have a clue that vulnerable narcissism existed. Quite a description from a great show. Thanks for sharing.

[@doctorposting]

my mom and grandma talking about my narc dad when i was little “dont worry we just need to wait until your father gets old for him to ‘calm down’. welp hes 70 now and still the same 🥲😆😆😆

[@Juju-tw7we]

BEEN WAITING FOR THIS!!

[@nickhershey3358]

Yes! I was hoping you would start analyzing characters or true crime stories! I don't know this show, but maybe you will do more that I am familiar with.

[@lisaraymond6193]

There is nothing that I enjoy more than exposing a narcissist. There is one man on the world's stage who is the #1 narcissist of this age. He seems to have a spell on all his followers. I hope that some day you can find the courage to expose the truth about him. Doing so will cause a wave of hate toward you, but it will open a lot of eyes to the truth. God bless

[@Dan_Chiron]

I really like this series, but only can watch it when I'm in a good mood, otherwise it'll trigger me big time. Great actors, I must say.

[@majkenulvag4147]

omg this is great!!! Please do this for more shows! And examples or clips would be even greater!!!!!!

[@papillon1094]

dr. Ramani. i'm thankful for all your information. And I would enjoy hearing your thougths about the difficulty of sharing the real feelings after a narcissistic relation.

[@rimam519]

Reminds me of my family and my husbands family. The irony of the matriarch or patriarch of the family being a raging narcissist is that they believe their kids should be AS successful or more successful than they are. But they are so unselfaware that their abuse destroys the kids and they all fail. This leaves the narcissist angry and disappointed and yup, betrayed and it leaves the kids as hollow shells of humans who will see their parent die, and only after will they realize that they were never going to earn that love ever/they were also probably the only things in the world that person did love. Lots of these kids post the death of the parent go a little nuts, or just fall out of society all together as their greatest protector and tormentor is gone and then you are left with the realization that you have NEVER done anything for yourself in your life. You dont even know WHAT you like let alone be capable of succeeding at anything. Most have difficulty in relationships of all sorts, friends, lovers, parters, work, etc. Because they all have latent narcissistic personalities even if they have gone to therapy. And it might be worse if they have becuase they become a fractured human, one self aware of their flaws and their failures, and the other looking to to narcissistic traits as those traits of success/self protection. And you get torn between fully embracing the monster and becoming a financial success/safe, or embracing the wounded child and becoming an emotional success. I dont think there is peace in these families. The children and children;s children are forever competing against each other and mistrusting each other. Always worried that the money will get stolen as money is the only thing that consistently stands in for love. Its used to control, to separate and to ensure that these kids will never find friends among themselves or among other people because their ability to create trust with anyone has utterly been destroyed. They are genuinely likely happier marrying people from similar families because no one else could possibly understand their insanity. And its nice to feel somewhat normal every so often. Any other relationship is just a pretence or temporary normality until your ability to stay stable slips and the partner cant handle it. That or your totally disconnected world view leaves little to no common ground.

[@romainsinclair953]

Wow, what a vivid image you drew!

[@adoyo14233]

Dr. Ramani, I really enjoy the material you create for your channel - much of which has been really useful in helping me reorient myself and find my feet in recovery. For that I thank you and hope that you will continue doing the remarkable work you do. I only just discovered that you have been videos about "Succession" and watching them is quite a special kind of treat! When I first started watching the show, I found the casual malevolence of all the members of the Roy family and those around them so very abrasive I could barely get through an episode without feeling a little scorched - this was a show I had to really pace myself watching because it was doing too good a job of triggering my phobia for nihilism. Because of this deeply visceral reaction, and because the Family name "Roy" means "King", I was curious about whether the other family names had a similar figurative weight - and boy do they ever! Listening to this video in your Succession reminded me of those early days and your praise of the writers at 0:50-1:20 moves me to share a figurative gem that I dug up during one of those earlier season when I was recovering between episodes before going back for more. I think that knowing and appreciating this detail about the writer's figurative onomastic intentionality was a balm to all the scorching I made myself endure just to watch one episode after another. The gem I am referring to is how rife with irony and mordancy the etymology of each member of the Roy (King) family. My favorite is "Little Hollow King", Logan Roy himself! characternames.com/character-names-from-succession/ I was going to list the names until I found this piece on the interwebs that does more than just list the names and they etymological translations. Enjoy! and Thank you.

[@Nonyabiz370]

Never heard of ‘Succession’, but have now added it to my mental list of movies I will never watch. Had enough of the real thing. If you’ve been through narcissistic abuse, or are still going through it, why in the world would you invite yourself to be triggered or re-traumatized by more of the same? In my opinion, shows like this feed the toxic atmosphere that we are forced to breathe day in and day out, already.

[@Heidi123]

It can be quite funny. I know that sounds odd but the characters can be truely ridiculous sometimes

[@mariecollins5840]

Succession is fantastic. I've learnt so much about Narcissists

[@helenn7577]

No please do not stop. Why are you stoping? You have been my rock. Your chanel has helped me understand the abuse and helped me begin my healing. Thank you. You have bern amazing. Please do not diapear off KZbin for long. Xx

[@shaylamarie960]

I've never seen this show. I'm going to watch now. 🎉🎊😊

[@blackquiver]

Yeah ..me 2. Lol .at first I thought she was talking about real life ppl. Aahahahaaaa. Half a sleep still, I thought she was conveying client patient information. Which I'm sure violates some ethics code. Aahahahaaa. I thought it was real..lol. 😂😁😆😅😜🤣😛😛🤯🤯. Then I realized doc was talking about a show. Ppffttt ha... Woke me up pretty quick. Haha. I think I need a cup of coffee..man..iv never seen this show, going to have to look it up now. . check out an episode.. soo funny.

[@theresacole]

I got out of a narcissistic relationship last year myself. To keep from falling back into that trap again, I educated myself about narcissism. Watching this show definitely helped me learn a lot about narcissism (as did watching other clips on KZbin and reading about it).

[@leilaniford3574]

I had no idea there was such a show. I will watch repeats.

[@amarbyrd2520]

If you're an @hbomax subscriber the previous seasons are available for you right now if you need to catch up 😄

[@ChuchoBros24]

Damn, I loved this video, the breakdown of each character was really interesting to see, I learned a lot I hope to see more, you just earned a subscriber :D

[@SymVib]

I’ve been waiting for you to make this video!! It was so fun to rewatch Succession after learning so much from your channel-the writing really became a lot more astonishing to me. Thanks for sharing your knowledge in your channel and for making this video!

[@Victory-hu7ny]

Great analysis, but i think you missed the mark on Roman. Roman stated earlier in the show that he suffers from borderline personality disorder. This makes me think that his relationships are not formed by a narcissistic personality, although I think he has some traits of that too, rather his mental incapability to form meaningful relationships with others. I know you are an expert in this field, but maybe you didn’t pick up on that detail. He constantly plays with other people`s emotions, just like Logan, but while Logan does it for his own enjoinment and showcase of power, Roman does it to get a feel where he has people mentally. This also explains his “mommy issues” which is not a manifestation of sexual deprivation or another form of phycosexual disorder, rather his form of communication of lacking relationships in his mind. This is why he constantly asks Gerry to marry him, reflecting his abandonment issues that are so prominent in people with borderline personality disorder, and why he also goes behind his siblings back in episode 2 season 4 In the fear of losing Logan. He fears Logan on the same level as Shiv and Kendall, but not in a business kind of way. The inappropriate sexual tension between Gerry and Roman is according to Kieran Culkin totally improvised, but it paints a great picture of how this sort of disorder can manifest itself in all kinds of people. Roman Is born into wealth and can “hide” his mental disorder by molding it into his conqueror personality type he so much wished he inherited from his father. Again, i know you are an expert on this field, so it would be great to get a in depth dive into Roman Roys mind!

[@tangodaze]

I also decided Roman must have BPD.

[@D__Cain]

I love that I fell into this video, now I’m stuck to this channel !

[@fishablish]

Love this show and this in depth analysis. Would love more videos like this. Thank you Dr Ramani.

[@0723niki]

I love Succession and I loved this analysis! My favorite character is Roman, which makes me a little bit worried about myself, lol.

[@elsavelaz]

❤ this take on Succession. i also ❤ how the writers set up the show's vibe with piano music that is both catchy and cutting, truly another element of the genius of the entire show

[@amberlynnadams3744]

Thank you! This was such a perfect analysis. I love this show. It is brilliant. Plus, the piano soundtrack is gut wrenching! Bravo, Dr. Ramani!

[@jordanweeks8278]

I'd love it if you did a break down of Mad Men characters! It's one of my favorite shows.

[@jmr1123]

Very interesting! This show is so fascinating. Would love for you to tackle the odd, overly-sexualized jargon this family and the people around them use (and not just Roman!) Hugo's phone call to his daughter in this most recent episode, 4x04 is an excellent example, or the conversation Kendall and Siobhan have at the karaoke bar after Logan leaves: "how was it for you, f****** dad?" They constantly refer to screwing each other when they really mean betraying, etc. Not to mention the inherent misogyny!

[@dherre]

The first time I saw Succession I felt so bad that I didn't want to see more of such toxicity. But I endured and I want to see to the very end of the show. One thing that I think felt is a scapegoat. Everybody has traits of a narcissistic personality, and everyone want to eat but not bo be eaten, but it felt a scapegoat. It would be awesome if somehow the scapegoat could get away of this narcissistic family, and shine, but probably it feels too Disney 😅. Anyway. It is a "bad"- good show to see, to learn and to enjoy seein how limited these characters are. 👏👏