Narcissism is a term used to define excessive self-admiration or high self-esteem without reason. However, narcissistic traits can exist more broadly. When exploring the topic of narcissism, it may be necessary to distinguish between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). While narcissistic personality disorder is a diagnosable personality disorder, a person who does not have the disorder can display narcissistic traits.
Understanding the many types of narcissistic traits and tendencies can be helpful if you think you, or someone you know, are struggling with these areas or may be living with narcissistic personality disorder.
What is the difference between NPD and narcissistic traits?
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder that can be diagnosed with criteria detailed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). However, narcissistic traits are behavioral patterns that can be found in a person regardless of whether they meet the minimum diagnostic criteria for mental illness.
In many cases, a person who displays traits of narcissistic personality disorder may have a personality or mood disorder independent of narcissistic personality disorder. Because symptoms may overlap, it may be helpful to consult a mental health professional to ask questions regarding the diagnostic process. While narcissistic traits are often considered harmful, some traits of narcissism can be considered positive and moderately healthy, such as a strong sense of confidence and high self-esteem.
Positive or healthy traits of narcissism may not disrupt an individual’s daily life or relationships. Unhealthy narcissism can be defined by an overly inflated sense of entitlement combined with a fragile sense of self-worth or low self-esteem.
In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), narcissistic personality disorder includes a common pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning in early adulthood, as evidenced by at least five of the following symptoms:
A great sense of self-importance, including exaggerated accomplishments, expectations of superior recognition, and a desire for approval
Preoccupation with delusions of success, power, intelligence, beauty, or “perfect” love.
The belief that a person is “special” and can only be understood by or should only be associated with other special people or institutions
The need for excessive admiration
A sense of entitlement, such as an unreasonable expectation of preferential treatment or compliance
Taking advantage of others and exploiting them to achieve their own goals
- Lack of empathy and unwillingness to recognize the needs of others.
Envy of others or belief that others envy them
Arrogant and arrogant actions and attitudes
To receive a diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder, these traits or behaviors cannot be attributed to incidents that occurred during adolescence or development. Additionally, these traits cannot be attributed to other mental or physical challenges, such as substance use disorders.
If you are struggling with substance abuse, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources.
Seven types of narcissistic traits and tendencies
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is the only official diagnosis of narcissism. Outside of psychology, the word “narcissism” is used in a descriptive rather than clinical sense. In an interview published by the American Psychological Association (APA), licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula stated, “Narcissism is seen as a disorder that inflates self-esteem and grandiosity. It’s those things, but it’s actually a personality disorder.” Respect my self.”
Many experts and mental health professionals have divided the traits of narcissism into seven identifiable categories, including the following.
explicit narcissism
Overt narcissism is considered the most obvious form of narcissism. Individuals with overt narcissistic tendencies may appear self-obsessed or preoccupied with status, wealth, or other forms of external validation. Those with overt traits may seem to have an unfair air of self-importance and respond poorly to criticism. They may find it difficult to notice errors in their behavior.
Hidden narcissism
Like overt narcissism, an individual who displays covert narcissism may harbor a self of entitlement and inflated self-importance. However, they may display these traits in a more negative light.
Recognizing covert narcissism can be difficult because these individuals may portray themselves as the one affected in situations in which they have acted out against another person. These individuals may engage in shaming, blaming, and manipulating those around them in order to gain validation and attention. They may try to make others appear wrong because of their behavior and may succeed because of their hidden strategies, including lying and deception.
Hostile narcissism
Hostile narcissism is characterized by the consumerist need to be “better” than others. A person who displays aggressive narcissism may lie, cheat, gaslight others in order to “win” or appear dominant.
Sectarian narcissism
Like covert narcissism, a person who displays traits of communal narcissism may not appear to display obvious narcissistic traits. These individuals may engage in activism or social movements, leading them to be viewed as selfless and compassionate. However, a person who displays collective narcissism may be more motivated by earning praise and validation, rather than a genuine interest in helping others.
Malignant narcissism
Malignant narcissism is often classified as the most serious form of narcissism as its traits tend to manifest as aggression, hostility, and a lack of empathy.
In some cases the traits and behaviors associated with malignant narcissism may overlap with symptoms of antisocial personality disorder, which can be characterized by a long-term pattern of unrepentant manipulation, exploitation, or violation of the rights of others.
Adaptive narcissism
Adaptive narcissism may exist alongside other narcissistic classifications, such as covert or collective narcissism. Adaptive narcissism refers to traits that allow individuals to “fit in” with others or help them succeed in their careers or education. People with adaptive narcissistic tendencies may adapt their manipulation strategies to the people they are with or act like a “chameleon” in social situations.
Unadaptive narcissism
Like adaptive narcissism, maladaptive narcissism can coexist alongside other narcissistic traits. Maladaptive narcissism tends to negatively affect the person who displays these traits, often resulting in poor interpersonal relationships due to aggressive, hostile, or condescending behaviors.
Consultation options
When approaching the topic of narcissism, it may be helpful to distinguish between narcissistic traits and the clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Given the complexity of narcissistic personality disorder and the individual difficulty in recognizing narcissistic traits in oneself, those closest to these individuals may notice these tendencies first. However, people with narcissistic tendencies who wish to seek support may also benefit from support. If you or someone you love has narcissistic traits like those listed above, consider contacting a therapist.
Virtual options such as therapy through an online counseling platform like BetterHelp may be an easier or safer option for care if someone’s narcissistic traits affect you or you have traits you’d like to deal with on your own. If you’re feeling self-conscious about your mental health and want support, online therapy can give you a confidential way to talk to someone. You can use your nickname when you sign up and choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions with your therapist.
In some cases, narcissistic traits can be attributed to other mental health conditions. According to multiple studies conducted over several years, online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy in treating many mental illnesses that may accompany narcissistic tendencies.
