Narcissistic Personal Disorder in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “narcissistic personality disorder” is used within the Deaf community to discuss mental health issues, particularly in the context of personal relationships and psychological well-being. This sign is significant when talking about behaviours associated with narcissism, which can affect both individuals and those around them.

How to Sign “Narcissistic Personal Disorder”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat ‘B’ shape, palm facing towards your body.
2. Place your hand on your forehead, close to your hairline.
3. Move your hand away from your head in a small arc outward, while keeping the hand in the ‘B’ shape.
4. Next, use your non-dominant hand to form the letter ‘N’ (using the index and middle fingers extended, while the other fingers are curled in).
5. Position the ‘N’ handshape near your dominant hand and move it slightly forward, indicating the term ‘disorder.’
6. Throughout the sign, maintain a serious facial expression to reflect the gravity of the topic.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features, such as facial expression, which convey the seriousness of the term.
• Using an incorrect handshape or position, which can lead to confusion with different signs.
• Not maintaining appropriate spacing between the signs, which is crucial for clarity in BSL.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “narcissistic personality disorder” involves specific handshapes and movements that differ from ASL. ASL may use different signs or concepts to convey the same meaning, and it’s essential for learners to familiarize themselves with both systems if they wish to communicate effectively across different Deaf communities.

Related Signs

• Mental Health – A general term for psychological well-being.
• Therapy – Refers to counseling and treatment for mental health issues.
• Psychology – The study of the mind and behaviour.
• Empathy – Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
• Relationship – A connection or bond between individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a BSL sentence?

You can say, “I think he has a narcissistic personality disorder” by signing “I think” followed by the sign for “narcissistic personality disorder.”

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the core sign remains the same, some regions may have slight variations in handshapes or movements. It’s beneficial to learn from local Deaf educators.

What are some similar signs?

Other related signs include “mental health,” “therapy,” and “psychology,” which can help provide context in conversations about mental well-being.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to ensure your handshape and facial expression are clear. Watching videos of fluent signers can also be helpful.

Is this sign commonly used in everyday conversation?

Yes, discussions about mental health are becoming more common in the Deaf community, making this sign increasingly relevant.

How can I improve my BSL skills?

Engage with the Deaf community, attend classes, and practice regularly with peers to enhance your fluency.