Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) - Symptoms and Causes
Jessica Bell
Apr 21, 2022
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. People with narcissistic personality disorder often have an inflated sense of self-importance, self absorption, and believe that they are superior to others. They often have a deep need for excessive attention and admiration and have a sense of entitlement. People with narcissistic personality disorder also lack empathy and are unable to understand or feel compassion for others. Pursuing healthy relationships may be a challenge for individuals with the disorder.
What is narcissism?
The word "narcissism" comes from the Greek myth about Narcissus, a handsome young man who falls in love with his own reflection. In the story, Narcissus is so entranced by what he sees that he eventually wastes away and dies. With this story, narcissism today is characterized by an inflated self image, being extremely self absorbed, an exaggerated sense of self importance and sense of entitlement. Narcissism is a personality trait, but it can also be included in the diagnosis of a larger condition.
What are the signs and symptoms of narcissism?
Since most narcissists and those with narcissistic personality disorder oftentimes do not seek treatment, narcissism is still being researched but there are common traits that can be looked out for:
-
Sense of entitlement. Narcissists have a grandiose sense of self-worth; they see themselves as superior to others and deserving of special treatment.
-
Manipulative behavior. Narcissistsare self centered, putting their own needs above anyone else's and may keep people at a distance to maintain control.
-
Attention seeking. Narcissists have a liking for excessive admiration and tend to exaggerate achievements to feel appreciation as an ego boost.
-
Lack of empathy. Narcissists often have troubled relationships due to their inability to consider other people's feelings and to take responsibility of their actions. With no empathy, most people may struggle to form relationships with narcissists.
-
Haughty behaviors. With an inflated self esteem, and superiority, narcissists tend to be rude towards people they deem inferior. With this, emotional abuse is a common scenario in relationships with narcissists.
What is narcissistic personality disorder?
Today, narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is used to describe a certain type of person. People with NPD tend to be preoccupied with themselves, their appearance, and their need for admiration from others. They often have difficulty empathizing with other people and may take advantage of them. Unfortunately, the term "narcissist" is often overused to describe someone who does not meet the diagnostic criteria as described in the DSM.
In the diagnostic and statistical manual (DSM), Narcissistic personality disorder is a part of a group of disorders called Cluster B personality disorders, which include histrionic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. It is a disorder that affects both men and women, but it is more common in men. Narcissistic personality disorder usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
NPD is a mental disorder that affects about 0.75% of the population in the United States.
What are the types of narcissism?
There are two distinct types of narcissism, each with its own set of characteristics. The two forms can have some similarities, but they both stem from different childhood experiences. The two types also determine how people interact in relationships differently.
-
Grandiose narcissism. This type is most likely to have been a result of a child being treated as if they were superior or above others. These notions may continue to influence them even after they become adults. They tend to boast and be elitist in nature. Grandiose narcissists are aggressive, domineering, and exaggerate their significance. They are extremely self-confident and have an inflated sense of self-importance. They believe that they are better than others and often seek attention and admiration.
-
Vulnerable narcissism. This is usually the case as a result of childhood neglect or abuse. Those who have this problem are far more sensitive. Narcissistic behavior helps to shield these individuals from feelings of inadequacy. They feel angry or afraid when others don't acknowledge them as exceptional, even if they go back and forth between feeling inferior and superior to others.
How can you handle someone with narcissistic personality disorder?
Narcissistic personality disorder is treatable with psychotherapy, but there is no cure for the disorder. It can be a debilitating condition that affects every aspect of a person's life. If you or someone you know may have narcissistic personality disorder, it is important to seek professional help to find the right treatment to manage the narcissistic traits. Don't be afraid to seek treatment, which a licensed therapist will be able to give you. Seeking treatment will be beneficial not only to the individual with NPD, but also the mental health of everyone in the individual's circle.
Mosaic Minds Counseling is here for anyone struggling with NPD or those that know someone with the disorder. Do not hesitate to reach out to us.