Fascinating. The dynamics on this thread are textbook. I almost feel empathy for Sandy1, except that all appearances suggest he revels in the adoration.
In psychiatry and clinical psychology, there isn't a single standalone term that exclusively describes the specific behavior I’m observing here, but the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) outlines this exact behavior under the criteria for NPD as a "belief that they are special and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people or institutions".
In broader psychological, behavioral, and cultural terms, this dynamic is often described using several related concepts.
Clinical & Psychological Terms:
• Basking in Reflected Glory (BIRGing): This is a recognized psychological phenomenon where an individual associates themselves with the success, prestige, or high status of others to boost their own self-esteem and public image.
• Grandiose Association / Idealized Reflection: In psychodynamic theory, individuals with fragile self-worth project a grandiose version of themselves. They latch onto influential or powerful figures, viewing them as an extension of themselves to absorb their status.
• Histrionic Traits: If the attachment is highly dramatic, theatrical, or superficial solely to remain the center of attention, it may align with Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD).
In non-medical or colloquial terms that describe this behavior, common descriptors include:
• Social Climber / Status Seeker: Someone who selectively builds relationships based purely on a person's social standing or power to elevate their own rank.
• Coattail Rider: A phrase used for someone who hitches their identity, career, or importance to the achievements of a more successful person.
• Sycophant: A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain an advantage or personal status.
Just sayin’.
Sadly, there are still one or two well meaning souls who continue to reach out in hopes of bringing reality back into focus here, only to end up attacked for their efforts. As I’m sure will I be attacked after posting. It’s a shame to see such an adversarial approach to those who are only attempting a conversation with you Sandy.
There’s a reason this thread sits alone on its ‘sticky’.