Mental health experts break down common signs of narcissistic personality disorder. Here's how to tell if you're dealing with a narcissist.
A narcissist has an exaggerated sense of self-importance “People with NPD want to be recognized as being superior without the necessary achievements that go along with that,” says Newman. A narcissist will routinely overestimate their abilities while simultaneously devaluing the contributions of other people, and they may act surprised when they don’t receive the praise they feel they deserve. Often, if they aren’t reaching the level of success they expect to, they find a way to blame other people or society, but never themselves.
A narcissist believes they’re special or unique It’s perfectly okay to think you’re a little special. But people with NPD take it to an extreme, believing they are so special that they can only be understood by other people they deem to be special. This is why they seek to surround themselves with only people they believe to be the best. This even extends to the doctors they are willing to see. Newman has seen this in his work: “When they come in for some type of therapy, they’re very specific about only being seen by the best person,” he says. “They don’t want just any therapist, they do not want a student, they want the best person. And they’re adamant about it.”
A narcissist requires excessive admiration Despite the fact that people with narcissistic personality disorder often act boastful and overconfident, their self-esteem can actually be pretty fragile. They have a tendency to be preoccupied with how they are perceived by other people and feel shocked or disappointed when people don’t lay on the flattery. This can be particularly true in romantic relationships. “Narcissists love you as long as you’re idolizing them,” says Newman. “They seem lovely and wonderful and shower you with attention until you assert yourself. Then you might see a mean streak you didn’t see before. And it’s scary.”
A narcissist has a sense of entitlement “A big sense of entitlement,” says Newman. People with NPD often believe the rules don’t apply to them. This can present itself as being disrespectful to people who warrant respect, like authority figures or national heroes. They are also the type of people who will make you bend over backwards to accommodate them and then show no appreciation for your kindness. “You could plan an entire event around this one person’s schedule and then they might not even show up,” says Newman. “It doesn’t even occur to them that they just pissed everyone off.”
A narcissist lacks empathy People with narcissistic personality disorder are notorious for being unable to empathize with the struggles or pain of others. “Sometimes a person with narcissistic personality disorder can seem totally reasonable until they say something that’s just outrageously insensitive,” says Newman. “They’d be the person that complains about how annoying their father is to someone who’s father just died.” On the flip side, narcissists will often talk at length about their own troubles and believe that people should genuinely care.
A narcissist is envious of others and believe others are envious of them People with NPD are constantly comparing themselves to others, especially very successful people, which can trigger feelings of envy. And if they do achieve success in their lives, they often enjoy thinking others are jealous or envious of them, says Newman.
A narcissist behaves in an arrogant or haughty manner Ever go on a date with someone who ordered the most expensive bottle of wine on the menu, acted very sweet and charming towards you, and yet was completely condescending and rude to the server? Acting arrogant or snobbish while complaining about the stupidity of others that you feel superior to is another red flag for narcissistic personality disorder
A narcissist is preoccupied with fantasies of success and the perfect mate People with NPD may ruminate excessively on achieving power, success, and respect from other powerful people. This may even play a role in how they pick a romantic partner: Research shows that narcissists place more importance on physical attractiveness and status than personality traits such as kindness or compassion. This is, in part, because when their “trophy” partner looks good, it reflects on themselves and elevates their own self-image.
A narcissist takes advantage of others A narcissist’s sense of entitlement combined with their lack of empathy makes them ripe for taking advantage of people for their own benefit. This is one reason people with narcissistic personality disorder can be terrible to work for, says Newman. If you have a narcissistic boss, they may work you into the ground without giving you the respect or compensation you deserve. It can be true with friendships, too. Many of us can say we’ve had a fair-weather pal who always seems too busy with their own fabulous life to spend time with you. That is, until you had those extra Beyoncé tickets!
The bottom line You can decide for yourself whether to continue a relationship with people who show narcissistic traits, but at least you'll be more aware of what's going on and be able to identify the red flags as they come.As Muir points out, NPD is difficult both as the person with the disorder and the person on the receiving end, so do what you can to have compassion both for yourself and the other person. It’s important to find strategies, such as grey rocking, that allow you to hold your boundaries.
What Is A Narcissist Narcissistic Personality Disorder Narcissistic Personality Disorder Symtoms Signs Of A Narcissist
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Artificial Intelligence Could Be a Solution to America's Mental Health CrisisArtificial intelligence could be a solution for America's impending mental health crisis.
Read more »
Prosecutors seek reforms to California’s ‘broken’ mental health diversion programDistrict attorneys throughout the state are pushing for legislative changes that would tighten up requirements under which a judge can grant diversion.
Read more »
How to help someone experiencing a mental health crisisIf you know someone is in a mental health crisis, experts say the best thing to do is to spark a conversation and connect them to resources and professional help. A mental health crisis can look different for anyone.
Read more »
Northglenn seeks formal agreement with state to ban sex offenders from mental health transitional homesAllie Jennerjahn joined the Denver7 news team in March 2024 as a morning reporter. She was born and raised in Hartford City, Indiana.
Read more »
Fury at California's 'insane' mental health diversion program after shock Lil Nas X ruling“California’s mental health system is the definition of insanity”
Read more »
The SimplePractice Uprise Health Partnership Expands Mental Health Access via SimpleConnectWant faster mental health care? The SimplePractice Uprise Health partnership uses SimpleConnect to streamline provider referrals. Read the full news!
Read more »