selfabsorption

Self-absorption is a preoccupation with one's own thoughts, feelings, and interests that can limit attention to others and to external events. It is a descriptive term used in everyday language and in psychology to indicate egocentric attention, not a formal diagnosis. Levels of self-absorption exist along a continuum and may vary by context, mood, and social environment.

In psychology, self-absorption is related to but distinct from clinical conditions. It can resemble egocentrism observed in childhood, but can persist into adulthood as part of personality style or as a feature of narcissistic traits. Media use and social media can amplify self-referential attention, where people curate and monitor personal narratives.

Manifestations include frequent self-referencing in conversation, emphasis on personal achievements or appearance, and difficulties in listening to others. It may involve seeking constant validation, reluctance to consider alternative viewpoints, and narrow focus on self-relevant concerns, sometimes at the expense of relationships and collaboration.

Causes are multifactorial and can include personality traits such as high self-focus, insecurity, stress, and cultural norms that prize individual achievement. It can accompany other conditions like anxiety or depression but is not itself a disorder. Context matters; what appears as self-absorption in one setting may reflect coping or self-care in another.

Management and implications: increasing awareness of others’ perspectives, practicing active listening, and engaging in empathy-building activities can reduce excessive self-focus. In some cases, psychotherapy or coaching may help address maladaptive patterns. See also egocentrism, narcissism, self-centeredness, and self-referential processing.