No, he is not ok with himself. People who abuse and mistreat are typically MOST insecure and have a very deep sense of inferiority and inadequacy. Therefore, they cover up their feelings of inadequacy by putting someone else down in order to feel more powerful and in control. And yes, the attention seeking is all a part of building up his self esteem and self importance because it's so low. It's a self esteem and self image problem.