### 4. **projection of grandiosity**  - **living in the fantasy**: the fantasy world might serve as an extension of the narcissists need for **grandiosity**. for instance, they might fantasize about being a hero, celebrity, or person of great importance, projecting these fantasies into real-life situations by exaggerating their accomplishments or fabricating stories. their fantasy world allows them to fulfill the **narcissistic supply** they cant get from others in reality.  - **distorted self-perception**: the inability to let go of childish pretending could mean that the individual has a **distorted sense of reality**. they may genuinely believe, at some level, in the fantasies they create, reinforcing a deep disconnect between their real-world achievements and the **delusions of grandeur** they live in. ### 5. **defensive mechanism**  - **protecting the ego**: for someone with npd, playing pretend can also function as a **defense mechanism** to protect their ego from the constant threat of shame or inadequacy. rather than face situations where they might feel inferior or embarrassed, they retreat into their imagination, where they can control the narrative. this could explain why they hold onto these fantasies well into adulthood.  - **reality avoidance**: instead of processing painful emotions like shame, guilt, or fear of failure, the person may turn to fantasy to **avoid** confronting these feelings. the fantasy acts as a **shield** against the emotional distress they would otherwise feel if they had to face their insecurities head-on.
United Kingdom