Alternative Developmental Pathways to Narcissistic Functioning: The Possible Roles of Dependence/Incompetence and Subjugation

Alternative Developmental Pathways to Narcissistic Functioning is a hypothesis model developed by András Kevereschán that explores possible developmental routes to narcissistic functioning beyond a single defectiveness-based explanation. The model uses schema therapy as a conceptual reference point while proposing two main areas of extension: the possible role of Dependence/Incompetence and the overcompensation of Subjugation. A central hypothesis is that Dependence/Incompetence may function as a developmental hub rather than merely as a secondary schema. The model proposes that it may arise through several pathways, including overprotective caregiving, parental psychological control, and other autonomy-limiting influences. Once established, it may contribute through three distinct routes:(1) increasing compliance-related tension and perceived pressure to meet expectations,(2) increasing Defectiveness/Shame-related self-evaluation, and(3) potentially extending the developmental window of vulnerability by delaying subjective autonomy and age-appropriate competence. The third pathway is explicitly presented as a novel and testable hypothesis and is not assumed to directly increase grandiosity. A second proposed pathway concerns Subjugation with an overcompensatory coping response. In this route, earlier experiences of submission or helplessness may contribute to a later need for control and dominance. Control may then become self-reinforcing because it can both reduce the aversive experience of vulnerability and provide rewarding experiences of superiority, agency, or dominance. The model asks whether, under some conditions, this process may contribute to grandiose narcissistic functioning even in the absence of a strong Defectiveness/Shame core. The two pathways are not treated as mutually exclusive. Dependence/Incompetence, Defectiveness/Shame, compliance pressure, Subjugation, and compensatory control may interact and reinforce one another. The paper also presents a possible family-dynamic example involving an overprotective caregiver and an emotionally unavailable parent, illustrating how reduced autonomy and high internalized expectations may create a “vise-like” developmental pressure. The model is presented as a theoretical and hypothesis-generating framework, not as an established causal account of narcissistic personality disorder. Its purpose is to identify specific, testable developmental pathways and to distinguish existing schema-therapy concepts from newly proposed mechanisms.