Narcissism is a term used to define excessive self-admiration or high self-esteem without reason. However, narcissistic traits can exist more on the spectrum. When exploring the topic of narcissism, it may be necessary to distinguish between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). While NPD 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, struggle with these areas or may be living with NPD.
What is the difference between NPD and narcissistic traits?
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder that can be diagnosed according to criteria detailed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). However, narcissistic traits are behavioral patterns that can be present in a person regardless of whether they meet the minimum diagnostic criteria for a mental illness.
In many cases, a person who exhibits NPD traits may be living with a personality or mood disorder that is independent of NPD. Because of the potential for overlapping symptoms, it may be helpful to consult a mental health professional with questions regarding the diagnostic process. While narcissistic traits are often considered harmful, some traits of narcissism can be considered positive and healthy in moderation, 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 as an extremely exaggerated sense of entitlement combined with a fragile sense of self-worth or low self-esteem.
In the DSM-5, narcissistic personality disorder includes a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy, beginning in early adulthood, as evidenced by at least five of the following symptoms:
High sense of self-importance, including exaggerated accomplishments, expectations of superior esteem, and a desire for approval
Preoccupation with fantasies of success, strength, brilliance, beauty, or “perfect” love
Believing that one is “special” and can only be understood or ought to relate to other private people or institutions
Excessive need for admiration
A sense of entitlement, such as an unreasonable expectation of preferential treatment or compliance
Exploiting and exploiting others to achieve their own goals
Lack of empathy and unwillingness to identify with the needs of others.
Envy of others or the belief that others are jealous of them
Arrogant, arrogant behaviors and attitudes
To receive a diagnosis of NPD, these traits or behaviors cannot be attributed to incidents during adolescence or the developmental stage. 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 the SAMHSA 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 sense rather than a clinical one. In an interview published by the American Psychological Association (APA), licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula stated, “Narcissism is thought of as a disorder of inflated self-esteem and grandiosity. It’s those things, but it’s actually a disorder of self-esteem.”
Many experts and mental health professionals have divided the traits of narcissism into seven identifiable categories, including the following.
Transforming narcissism
Overt narcissism is the most obvious form of narcissism. Individuals with overt narcissistic tendencies may appear obsessed with themselves, entitled, or preoccupied with status, wealth, or other external forms of validation. Those with overt traits may appear to have an unfair air of self-importance and respond poorly to criticism. They may struggle to notice flaws in their behaviour.
Covering narcissism
Like overt narcissism, an individual displaying covert narcissism may have the same entitlement and inflated self-importance. However, they may project these traits more negatively.
Recognizing covert narcissism can be difficult because these individuals may paint themselves as affected in situations in which they acted against another person. These individuals may engage in shaming, blaming, and manipulation of those around them in order to gain validation and attention. They may try to make others look wrong with their behavior and may succeed because of their subtle strategies, including gaslighting and lying.
aggressive narcissism
Hostile narcissism is characterized by an overwhelming need to be “better” than others. A person who displays hostile narcissism may lie, cheat, gaslight, or degrade others to “win” or appear dominant.
Societal narcissism
Like covert narcissism, a person who exhibits traits of societal narcissism may not manifest as overt narcissistic traits. These individuals may engage in social activism or movements, which leads to them being seen as selfless and sympathetic. However, a person who displays societal 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 dangerous form of narcissism as its traits tend to manifest in the form of 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 manipulating, exploiting, or violating the rights of others without remorse.
Adaptive narcissism
Adaptive narcissism may exist alongside other narcissistic classifications, such as covert or group narcissism. Adaptive narcissism refers to the traits that allow individuals to “integrate” with others or help them succeed in their careers or education. People with adaptive narcissistic tendencies may adapt strategies to manipulate those they are with or they may act as “chameleons” in social situations.
Narcissism is maladaptive
Like adaptive narcissism, maladaptive narcissism can coexist alongside other narcissistic traits. Maladaptive narcissism tends to negatively affect the person who exhibits the traits, often resulting in poor interpersonal relationships due to aggressive, hostile, or condescending behaviors.
Consultation options
When approaching the topic of narcissism, it can be helpful to distinguish between narcissistic traits and a clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Because of the complexity of NPD 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 such as BetterHelp may be an accessible or safer option of care if someone’s narcissistic traits affect you or if you have traits that you would like to work on on your own. If you feel self-conscious about your mental health and want support, online therapy can give you a discreet way to talk to someone. You can use a pseudonym when you sign up and choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions with your therapist.
