Photo Attribution: SearchNet Media from Tucson, Arizona, USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
The world of reality TV has no shortage of larger-than-life personalities. These characters entertain us, make us cringe, or sometimes even inspire us. But some personalities spark a more complex debate. One such individual is Kody Brown, the polygamous patriarch from the popular TLC show, "Sister Wives."
While Kody Brown has garnered a significant fan base, he also has a considerable number of critics. And, unfortunately for him, his actions and attitudes on the show give these critics ample material to define him as a self-centered narcissist. Here’s why:
1. Lack of Empathy Towards His Wives:
Throughout the various seasons, there have been countless instances where Kody's wives have expressed their concerns, insecurities, and frustrations. Instead of addressing them empathetically, Kody has often shown a dismissive attitude. A supportive partner would listen and try to understand, but Kody seems more interested in justifying his actions or shifting blame.
2. Desire for the Spotlight:
The essence of narcissism is an inflated sense of one's own importance, and Kody fits the bill. Whether it's his constant desire to expand his family despite financial struggles or his penchant for dramatic announcements, it's clear Kody enjoys being the center of attention.
3. Superficial Charm:
Narcissists are often quite charming on the surface, and Kody is no exception. His charisma is undeniable, especially when courting a new potential wife or persuading his current wives of a controversial decision. However, this charm often appears skin-deep, employed more as a manipulation tool than genuine affection.
4. Lack of Accountability:
Time and again, Kody has made decisions that impact the whole family, from relocating to taking on new wives. However, when these decisions lead to complications or strife, he rarely takes responsibility. Instead, he deflects, often implying that the wives or children should adjust their attitudes or expectations.
5. Inconsistent Treatment of Wives:
While polygamy inherently involves a unique relationship dynamic, Kody's treatment of his wives is notably inconsistent. This inconsistency can be seen as another narcissistic trait, where the narcissist rewards and punishes based on their whims, keeping the other party always on their toes.
6. Showcasing an Unflattering Persona on National Television:
One has to wonder why someone would be comfortable displaying what many see as unlikable traits on national TV. This may be because narcissists often lack self-awareness, believing they're always in the right, regardless of public opinion.
In conclusion, while it's crucial to remember that reality TV is a curated and edited portrayal of real life, Kody Brown's on-screen persona has left many viewers with the impression of him as a self-centered narcissist. Whether this is an accurate representation of the man in his day-to-day life is a matter of debate. Still, one thing is clear: he remains one of the most divisive figures in reality TV.