According to a recent study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences, it was proved that shorter and bitter people are relatively unhappy with their lives. This feeling of constant unhappiness and resentment may push them to engage in antagonistic behaviours in an attempt to offset their height disadvantage. This mental condition is usually referred to as ‘The Napoleon Complex’, or in other words, ‘The Short Man Syndrome’.
We recently reached out to a psychiatrist to know more about The Napoleon Complex and how we do our part to cease it from existing in our beings. Check out the Q&A below.
Is it true that shorter people have a higher affinity towards aggression and can even end up as psychopaths?
There is insufficient data about this, but it is known that low self-confidence in certain areas is an important aspect of psychopaths.
How does psychology play an important role in a series of events that uncover a person becoming a psychopath?
Abnormalities of Genetics and parent-child relationship help in shaping the future of psychological aspects of psychopaths. The living environment plays a crucial role as childhood episodes of abuse, neglect, and emotional suffering are known predisposing factors. Impairment of empathy and remorse reaction, difficulty in cognitive and emotional processes, a disregard for social norms, Impulsively and aggression are all parts of personality and thinking that can predispose towards psychopathy.
Some studies have suggested the role of responses to stimuli and have found reduced reactivity to pleasurable stimuli in these people. There is also difficulty responding to punishment and difficulty in controlling their emotions as well as impulses.
How can one avoid giving in to psychopathic tendencies to avoid being branded as one?
Developing self-awareness and empathy-building practices can help. Being grateful for the good things in life and rewarding oneself for good deeds done should be the preferred way of thinking. Developing a sense of control over overt emotional needs can also help. Physical health also helps in keeping good mental health as well.
Dr. Sonal Anand
Psychiatrist
Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road
