Doctors say that about 1% of the population has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). I personally believe the true number is much higher.
I believe there are many people with NPD who go undiagnosed. Probably about 5% of the population has it. If I’m right, that means only 1 in 5 people with NPD are diagnosed.
Here are some reasons why I believe the majority of narcissists go undiagnosed…
Difficulty Diagnosing Narcissistic Children
To be diagnosed with NPD, you must exhibit traits like arrogance, a strong sense of entitlement, manipulation, and inconsistency or lack of empathy.
The problem is, most children exhibit these traits anyway. Children are supposed to be narcissistic for their own survival. A child with NPD may be a little more narcissistic, but they usually fit in with their peers. Their behaviors only become apparent as they get older.
Children change quickly. Most mental health professionals are reluctant to diagnose a child with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. There’s a chance they’ll outgrow it as they get older. It would be unfair to misdiagnose a young child.
Related : How Narcissists Cause Others To Fight
Once they’re older, they don’t face the same level of scrutiny. They don’t go to school, and their parents aren’t responsible for their health. So, it falls largely on them to seek help. But…
Narcissists Don’t Seek Diagnosis
A common characteristic of narcissists is their belief that they’re better than everyone else. They feel blessed to have something special that elevates them above ordinary humans. So, by nature, they don’t believe there’s anything wrong with them.
Narcissists typically believe everyone thinks the same way they do. They’re simply better at controlling and manipulating. Far from being flawed and in need of help, narcissists believe they’re superior. So why do they seek medical help?
Narcissists Hide Their Symptoms
Narcissists wear multiple masks. They’re adept at pretending to be someone they’re not.
Narcissists don’t hesitate to pretend they’re the perfect partner for a new love affair. They fake their personalities to match what they believe they like. They can continue this pretense for months, even years.
Narcissists want to be liked. So they often play nice, friendly, and charming. They only reveal their narcissism behind closed doors. Often, only close family members see their true colors.
But most narcissists aren’t stupid. They realize they can’t overestimate their families. So, they sometimes pretend to be nice. They may offer occasional compliments or sweet gestures.
Narcissists are adept at knowing how far they can push others to surrender without completely alienating them. Therefore, even their closest family members don’t always realize the full extent of their problem.
Narcissists often blame their loved ones. They are so clever and careful that many fall for their trap. They also bear responsibility for the narcissist’s actions. Many also neglect their families.
Narcissists_Are_Difficult_to_Diagnose
Narcissistic Personality Disorder is difficult to diagnose with certainty. Doctors have limited time with the narcissist, can only ask questions, and cannot observe them in their daily lives.
Narcissists are hierarchical by nature. They speak condescendingly to the janitor, but flatter their boss. The narcissist typically views the doctor as a role model and is likely to treat them with respect, concealing their narcissistic traits. As I mentioned, narcissists are masters of deception. They can easily feign kindness for a few hours while talking with a doctor. If they don’t want to be diagnosed, most narcissists can manipulate them.
Lack_of_Awareness_of_Narcissistic_Disorder
The average person has little or no knowledge of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. They may know that being with a loved one is difficult, but they don’t wonder if they have it. It’s not their concern.
Most GPs have limited knowledge of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, so they’re unlikely to notice the signs, especially when they only spend ten minutes with them every few months.
Related : Signs You Have A Narcissist Parent
Family or doctors are unlikely to refer someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder to a mental health professional. And even if they did, would the narcissist actually attend? And if they did, would they be honest about their thoughts and feelings?
Conclusion
With all these obstacles, it’s no surprise that so many people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder go undiagnosed.
I feel there needs to be more awareness of narcissism. That’s why I created this blog.
With more awareness, those affected can seek help. People who struggle with the presence of narcissistic personalities in their lives can learn how to better deal with them.
While there is no cure for narcissistic personality disorder, a diagnosis helps sufferers understand their thoughts and behaviors. Through psychotherapy, they can learn to channel these thoughts and behaviors in more positive ways. With greater knowledge, people can decide whether they want the things the narcissist brings into their lives.
