oh wow, sounds almost like the things mine said / asked / wanted to hear.

is in in counseling / therapy? does he have a PD? I know though that some people just have a bit of low esteem and some insecurities and they are normal enough, it's how far and deep does it go to the point of needing therapy and possibly suffering from some sort of PD.

for me, i thought ... at least at the time ... was to boost his ego, make him feel ... good about himself ... as he has a ... low esteem

but i know now it's also part of his PD ... possibly a combo of BPD, NPD, paranoia, etc ...

wish him to be better, let the "moment of clarity" last so he can get the help needed.