The following is a list of the 12 traits typically associated with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD):
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Grandiose Sense of Self: Individuals with NPD often hold an exaggerated sense of their own importance, believing themselves to be exceptional and deserve special treatment and respect.
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Excessive Need for Admiration: They exhibit an insatiable need for constant attention and validation from others to feel good about themselves, often monopolizing conversations and requiring reassurance.
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Superficial and Exploitative Relationships: NPD often manifests in superficial and exploitative relationships, where individuals base their value on external attributes rather than unique qualities.
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Need for Control: People with NPD tend to be perfectionistic and expect everything to go their way. They may become frustrated and irritable when things do not go according to their plans.
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Lack of Empathy: NPD patients often lack the ability to empathize with others, which can result in callous and insensitive behavior towards those around them.
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Believe They are Special or Unique: NPD individuals may believe they are special and unique, and their self-worth depends on maintaining this exceptional status.
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Difficulty with Attached and Dependency: Avoid intimacy and develop shallow relationships to maintain a positive self-image, often excluding those close to them.
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Chronic Feelings of Emptyness and Boredom: After not receiving attention and praise, individuals with NPD may feel empty, bored, and depressed. The need for constant validation can lead to feelings of insecurity.
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Sense of Entitlement: They may believe they are entitled to special treatment and preferential treatment from others, expecting others to adapt to their needs and preferences.
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Lack of Responsibility: NPD individuals may blamify others for their mistakes, deferring responsibility onto others rather than acknowledging their own role in situations.
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Lack of Boundaries: NPD patients may exhibit poor boundaries, intruding into the personal space and boundaries of others, leading to feelings of resentment and conflict.
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Fear of Rejection: Deeply fear being wrong или seen as imperfect, avoiding situations that might lead to criticism or rejection, lacking trust in the love of others.
NPD can cause significant distress to individuals and those around them, often leading to feelings of worthlessness, anxiety, and depression. Healthcare professionals often use diagnostic criteria such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health to identify NPD. The course of treatment typically includes psychotherapeutic and sometimes medication management, as well as individualized supports tailored to the specific needs of the individual.