26 Feb


What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition that goes beyond a healthy sense of self-worth. Individuals with NPD have an insatiable need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others. These traits can complicate social and emotional life, often stemming from a combination of genetic, environmental, and upbringing factors.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is characterized by an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a diminished capacity for empathy. People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder often exaggerate their achievements and talents, expect special treatment, and disregard the needs of others. While narcissism is commonly seen as excessive ego, NPD is a complex personality disorder rooted in insecurity, unstable self-esteem, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships.


Diagnostic criteria (DSM-5)

A pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following:

  1. Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements). 
  2. Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love. 
  3. Believes that he or she is “special” and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions). 
  4. Requires excessive admiration.
  5. Has a sense of entitlement (i.e., unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with his or her expectations). 
  6. Is interpersonally exploitative (i.e., takes advantage of others to achieve his or her own ends).
  7. Lacks empathy: is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others.
  8. Is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her.
  9. Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes.


How to recognize Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Recognizing Narcissistic Personality Disorder involves identifying key characteristics such as an inflated sense of superiority, an excessive need for attention, and a lack of empathy. It is crucial to differentiate Narcissistic Personality Disorder from healthy self-confidence—individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder exhibit extreme and destructive behaviors. Diagnosis is typically made by a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, or clinical psychologist through a clinical interview and psychological assessments. Observing interpersonal relationships and assessing how behaviors affect a person's quality of life are essential parts of the evaluation. However, most individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder do not perceive themselves as having a disorder.


How to treat Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

The primary treatment for Narcissistic Personality Disorder is psychotherapy, with psychodynamic therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) being the most common approaches. Therapy aims to increase self-awareness, reduce destructive behaviors, and help individuals develop healthier relationships. It focuses on assisting patients in understanding their emotions and needs while learning constructive ways to manage them. In cases where NPD coexists with depression or anxiety, medication may be used as a supportive treatment. Due to the low motivation of individuals with NPD to change, therapy requires commitment and time, but long-term efforts can lead to significant improvements in relationships and overall well-being.


Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a serious condition that affects both the individual and those around them. Through psychotherapy, it is possible to reduce negative symptoms and improve interpersonal relationships. However, individuals with NPD often do not see their behavior as problematic, making the therapeutic process challenging and requiring patience and conscious engagement.It is also important for those in close relationships with narcissistic individuals to set clear boundaries and protect themselves from manipulation and guilt-tripping. Instead of attempting to change the narcissistic person, focusing on one’s emotional well-being and seeking therapy or support groups can be beneficial. If you feel you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out.


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