What is a God Complex?

When someone is said to have a god complex, it typically means that he or she is extremely arrogant, might consider himself or herself to be infallible and might try to control or manipulate other people. This slang term essentially suggests that the person behaves as though he or she is a god. The term might be used colloquially to refer to people who behave as though they are superior to other people and demonstrate little empathy and compassion for others. Although "god complex" is not a medical term and is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), it is sometimes associated with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).

There is no specific definition of the term "god complex," but there are certain characteristics that are common in people who are said to have this. These characteristics include arrogance, bullying or manipulating others, being judgmental and believing that he or she is never wrong. Someone who has a god complex might also be prone to becoming angry when things do not go his or her way, might be poor at interpersonal communication and might not be receptive to criticism. He or she also might try to exert a great deal of influence in various matters or relish having power, authority or control. Many people exhibit some of these characteristics in certain situations, even if they would not be said to have god complexes.

People in certain professions are often accused of having god complexes. Among the most common are doctors, surgeons, politicians and managers. Many such professions require a great deal of knowledge or skill and involve having influence or authority over other people. In many cases, people will develop god complexes only after obtaining power, perhaps giving credence to the old saying "power corrupts."

Although narcissistic personality disorder is not the same as a god complex, there are some similarities. Among the characteristics of NPD are an overinflated view of one's self, a lack of empathy toward others and reacting angrily to criticism. A person who has NPD might also become jealous easily and might take advantage of other people.

Despite the ways that people who have god complexes or NPD behave, many psychoanalysts believe that they actually have very fragile and delicate self-esteems, drawing their self-esteems from the approval and attention of others. This sensitivity might be what drives them to behave callously, because when they feel threatened or marginalized, they might lash out. It also might be difficult for people to recognize that they have god complexes, and they might interpret such suggestions as criticisms that are designed to undermine them rather than to help them.

It's usually pretty easy to spot people with a god complex within the first few conversations you have with them. You'll notice that they get uncomfortable if the topic strays too far from them or their particular interests. They may nod and smile while you are talking, but you will probably get the impression that they're just waiting for you to stop so they can talk more about themselves. There are several god complex symptoms to look out for:

A god complex can manifest in many different ways. When you first meet people who think this highly of themselves, they are likely to come across as confident, open and friendly. Soon, however, you may see signs that they don't regard you with the same consideration. God complex examples play out differently depending on the type of relationship you share with these individuals.

When you work with people who think they are superior to others, it is likely that they only act as team players when doing so gets them what they want. Otherwise, they may do whatever they can to make themselves look like heroes, even if it means downplaying others' contributions or throwing them under the bus when something goes wrong. If you supervise them, it may be difficult to get them to take constructive feedback seriously, because they have a hard time admitting that they're not perfect. Mistakes or misunderstandings are likely to be blamed on other people.

It can be difficult to get to know people who have god complexes. It is hard for them to see other people as their equals, so they may isolate themselves from others whom they don't know well. As an acquaintance, you may find that your invitations are ignored and your phone calls or text messages are not returned. If you do manage to get ahold of them, it's probably because they need a favor or want you to do something for them. They are likely to act graciously as long as you are agreeable. When you challenge them, however, their behavior may become condescending and manipulative.

Being in a romantic relationship with people who have a god complex can be particularly challenging. As the primary social contacts in their lives, even the most selfless, giving partners may find the pressure of meeting their many needs overwhelming. Partners often feel unfulfilled and eventually break up with them when keeping them happy becomes more than they're able to give. It's not unusual, therefore, for a person who displays god complex examples to jump from relationship to relationship and feel abandoned by exes.

While you can choose your friends and romantic partners, you may not always be able to pick everyone you interact with in other areas of your life. Chances are, therefore, that you will need to know how to respond to people with god complexes. You can't control their attitudes or behaviors, but you can control your own. Set boundaries early and communicate them clearly. Try not to depend on them for approval. If you do, you are likely to be disheartened when you can never seem to measure up to what they ask of you. Finally, know when to recognize that the relationship has become too toxic to continue.