Seven Types Of Narcissistic Traits And Tendencies
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Narcissism is a term used to define a high admiration for oneself or a high regard for the self without cause. However, narcissistic traits can exist more on a spectrum, meaning there are individual differences. Narcissists may display grandiosity and lack empathy, but present as quite charismatic in social settings. They may even have adaptive traits such as confidence and ambition that are rewarded in professional circles. When exploring the topic of narcissism, it can be vital to distinguish between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), also known as pathological narcissism. While NPD is a diagnosable personality disorder, a person without this mental health disorder can exhibit narcissistic traits.
Understanding the multiple types of narcissistic traits and tendencies can be beneficial if you believe you or someone you know, is struggling with these areas or might be living with NPD.
What is the difference between NPD and narcissistic traits?
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a diagnosable personality disorder with criteria detailed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition(DSM-5). However, narcissistic traits are behavioral patterns that can exist in a person regardless of whether they have the minimum diagnostic criteria to have a mental illness. As a personality trait, narcissism may be difficult to separate from NPD; because of this, it's essential to seek an official diagnosis.
In many cases, a person who shows traits of NPD may be living with a personality or mood disorder independent of NPD. Due to the likelihood of overlapping symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional with questions regarding the diagnostic process. While narcissistic traits are often regarded as harmful, certain traits of narcissism may 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 may be defined by a highly inflated sense of entitlement paired with a fragile sense of self-worth or low self-esteem.
In the DSM-5, narcissistic personality disorder involves a pervasive pattern of grandiosity. The term grandiosity refers to exaggerated feelings of superiority or entitlement, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy, These symptoms can begin by early adulthood, and may be indicated by at least five of the following symptoms:
A grandiose sense of self-importance, including exaggerated achievements, expectations for superior recognition, and desire for approval
Preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, brilliance, beauty, or "perfect" love
A belief that one is "special" and can only be understood by or should only associate with other special people or institutions
A need for excessive admiration
A sense of entitlement, such as an unreasonable expectation of favorable treatment
Exploitation and taking advantage of others to achieve one's own goals
A lack of empathy and an unwillingness to identify with the needs of others.
Envy of others or a belief that others are envious of them
Arrogant, haughty behaviors and attitudes
To receive an NPD diagnosis, 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.
Major narcissism categories: vulnerable and grandiose narcissism
While there are a variety of narcissistic traits and tendencies, they often fit into two overarching categories: grandiose and vulnerable. Grandiose and vulnerable narcissism can have similar features, including a tendency to be charismatic and likable. However, the two categories can also differ significantly, including their potential sources. For example, a person with vulnerable narcissistic traits (sometimes incorrectly referred to as a “vulnerable narcissist”) may come from an abusive background or childhood neglect. On the other hand, those with grandiose narcissistic traits (sometimes incorrectly referred to as “grandiose narcissists”).
Seven types of narcissistic traits and tendencies
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is the only official diagnosis regarding narcissism, meaning there are no other narcissistic personality disorder types. 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 states, "Narcissism is viewed as a disorder of inflated self-esteem and grandiosity. It is those things, but in fact, it's a disorder of self-esteem."
Due to the nature of different types of narcissism and their traits, individuals exhibiting them might struggle to see or care about the adverse consequences of their behavior. Instead, these behaviors may negatively affect the people around them while subconsciously impacting the individual themselves in ways. For this reason, it can be helpful to understand the different types of narcissism and the ways that narcissistic traits may present in others.
Various experts and mental health professionals have broken down the traits of narcissism into seven identifiable categories, including the following.
Overt narcissism
Overt narcissism is regarded as the most apparent form of narcissism and is often associated with pathological narcissism. Individuals experiencing tendencies of overt narcissism may seem self-obsessed, entitled, or preoccupied with status, wealth, or other external forms of validation. Those with overt traits may appear to have an unjust or grandiose self-image and respond poorly to criticism. They might struggle to notice the faults in their behaviors. These individuals also may be focused on specific personal features, with one example being a person with somatic narcissistic traits. Sometimes incorrectly referred to as a “somatic narcissist,” these people may directly tie their self-worth to their physical attractiveness.
Covert narcissism
Like overt narcissism, an individual exhibiting covert narcissism may harbor a self of entitlement and inflated self-importance. However, they might go about displaying these traits more passively. This can be seen with certain types of individuals with narcissistic traits, like those whose narcissism is defined by spirituality (sometimes incorrectly referred to as a “spiritual narcissist”).
Recognizing covert narcissism may be challenging as these individuals might paint themselves as the ones impacted in situations where they've acted out against someone else. These individuals may engage in shaming, blaming, and manipulating those around them for the sake of receiving validation and attention. They may try to make others seem at fault for their own behavior and might be successful due to their hidden strategies, including gaslighting and lying.
Antagonistic narcissism
Antagonistic narcissism is characterized by a consuming and excessive need to be "better" than others. Someone displaying antagonistic narcissism may lie, cheat, gaslight, or put others down to "win" or appear dominant.
Communal narcissism
Like covert narcissism, someone displaying traits of communal narcissism may not appear to exhibit obvious narcissistic traits. Communal narcissists may engage in activism or social movements, leading to them being perceived as selfless and empathetic. However, someone displaying communal narcissism may be more motivated by earning praise and validation, rather than by 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 present in the form of aggression, hostility, and a lack of empathy.
In some cases, traits and behaviors associated with malignant narcissism may overlap with the 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 communal narcissism. Adaptive narcissism refers to traits that allow individuals to "blend in" with others or help them succeed in their careers or education such as self-confidence or leadership skills, for instance. People with adaptive narcissistic tendencies might adapt their manipulation strategies to those they're with or act as "chameleons" in social situations.
Maladaptive narcissism
Like adaptive narcissism, maladaptive narcissism can co-exist alongside other narcissistic traits. Maladaptive narcissism tends to negatively affect the person exhibiting the traits, often leading to poor interpersonal or peer relationships due to aggressive, hostile, or condescending behaviors.
Other types of narcissism may include generational narcissism, entitled narcissism, benign narcissism, and somatic narcissism.
Emerging Subtypes of Narcissism
Aside from recognized types like maladaptive and covert narcissism, research in the mental health field is uncovering new types of narcissism with unique characteristics. These are referred to as emerging subtypes. They may include benign narcissism and generational narcissism, for example.
Benign narcissism is a type of narcissism marked by a lack of empathy and a high level of entitlement. Unlike other types of narcissism, though, benign narcissism may not include the intent to harm or manipulate others. These types of narcissists are mostly just self-absorbed and unaware of other people’s feelings.
Generational narcissism is a type of narcissism that is passed down in families. While not necessarily biological, the tendency to be self-absorbed, devoid of empathy, and obsessed with social power can be passed from parent to child through learned behaviors. For someone who is motivated to change, it may be possible to break the generational cycle of entitled narcissism.
The Fine Line Between Self-Confidence and Narcissism
Self-confidence can be a common trait among people with and without narcissistic traits, making it difficult to tell the difference in some cases. In people with NPD, self-confidence may be an adaptive trait that they use purely for their own benefit. People without NPD who possess self-confidence may also have a strong moral code and use their interpersonal skills to help others. Another way to distinguish NPD from confidence is to look for other problematic traits; these individuals may also display grandiosity and lack empathy or self-awareness.
What Causes Narcissistic Traits to Develop?
Like other personality development and mental health conditions, narcissism may be the result of a number of different factors. For example, genetics may play a role alongside early childhood experiences and certain environmental factors. Sometimes, narcissistic traits may be the result of an underlying mental health disorder. When there is a family history of pathological narcissism, family members can suffer intergenerational traumas, which can further complicate the condition. NPD and narcissistic traits aren’t usually conducive for professional or social settings, so these conditions might negatively impact a person. Mental health support can provide much-needed treatment and guidance, so individuals can enjoy a better life.
Narcissism and Related Mental Health Disorders
The relationship between narcissism and other mental health conditions can be complex. In some cases, narcissistic traits such as lack of empathy, for example, might be a symptom of a mental health disorder such as antisocial personality disorder or other personality disorders. In other cases, pathological narcissism (NPD) might co-occur with other conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, or bipolar disorder. Those individuals who lack empathy or have other narcissistic traits may benefit from professional treatment with one of the mental health professionals on the BetterHelp platform.
How Narcissism Manifests in Relationships
Narcissism not only impacts the person experiencing it. The condition can also have negative or even devastating effects on the people in the narcissist’s life, including those in romantic relationships. In close relationships, narcissists often believe they deserve special treatment. They often lack empathy and self-awareness and they may use social power or manipulation over their significant other for their own benefit.
Pathological Narcissism and Its Impact on Mental Health
When approaching the subject of narcissism, it can be beneficial to distinguish between narcissistic traits and the clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Due to the complexity of NPD and individual difficulty in recognizing narcissistic traits in oneself, the people closest to these individuals might first notice these tendencies. For those with symptoms of pathological narcissism, professional treatment with a licensed therapist can help. However, people with narcissistic tendencies who lack empathy or self-awareness (but don’t have a diagnosis of a mental health disorder) may also benefit from therapy as part of their mental health journey. If you or someone you love has narcissistic traits like the ones mentioned above, consider contacting a therapist.
Overcoming the Effects of Narcissism
Left untreated, the effects of narcissism can all but destroy a person’s life, including their marriage and other close relationships, leaving them with no support system. If a person has true NPD, they’re not likely to change their behavior without professional treatment with a licensed therapist. In therapy, you can build self-worth, develop empathy and self-awareness, and ultimately, have a better life.
Counseling options
When approaching the subject of narcissism, it can be beneficial to distinguish between narcissistic traits and the clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Due to the complexity of NPD and individual difficulty in recognizing narcissistic traits in oneself, the people closest to these individuals might first notice these tendencies. However, people with narcissistic tendencies who want to seek support may also benefit from support. If you or someone you love has narcissistic traits like the ones mentioned above, consider contacting a therapist.
Virtual options like therapy through an online counseling platform like BetterHelp may be a more convenient or safe option for care if someone's narcissistic traits impact you or if you have traits you'd like to work through yourself. If you are experiencing negative emotions about your mental health and want support, online therapy can allow you a discreet way to talk to someone. You can use a nickname when you sign up and choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions with your therapist.
Therapy that fits your life
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Pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability and any applicable discounts or promotions that might apply.
In some cases, narcissistic traits may be attributed to other mental health conditions. According to multiple studies conducted over several years, online therapy is equally as effective as in-person therapy in treating many mental illnesses that may accompany narcissistic tendencies. Mental health professionals are available to provide therapy to help you build self-worth, self-awareness, and a better life. Professional treatment with a licensed therapist can be life-changing.
Takeaway
What are the 9 types of narcissists?
Defining narcissism is complex. It is a personality trait that is considered pathological in most contexts. The only rigid definitions are found in the diagnostic criteria for narcissistic personality disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V (DSM-V). It is considered a harmful mental health condition, but many people display narcissistic behaviors without meeting the criteria for diagnosis. Because of the nuances associated with narcissism, many attempts have been made to classify potential subtypes, each with varying evidence supporting them. Some of the better-known types of narcissism are outlined below:
- Grandiose narcissism is what many consider to be representative of common narcissistic tendencies. It is characterized by an inflated sense of self-worth, a tendency to overestimate one’s ability, and a desire to exert superiority over others. Grandiose narcissists tend to endorse positive descriptions of themselves while suppressing negative ones. They have extreme self-focus and rarely notice those around them.
- Vulnerable narcissism is often called the “opposite” of the grandiose type, but the two types have many similarities. Both grandiose and vulnerable narcissists exhibit self-centeredness and an exaggerated sense of self-importance, but vulnerable narcissists typically have lower self-esteem and require validation from others to bolster it.
- Closet narcissism often presents as shyness or subservience. They present a false self that may appear ideal but often hides underlying vulnerabilities about their flaws. They tend to hide mistakes and avoid solving problems caused by their low self-worth. Closet narcissists rarely perceive that they live up to the expectations of others and may go to great lengths to avoid criticism.
- Sexual narcissism describes narcissistic tendencies that are expressed through sex. It is typically described as having four facets: sexual exploitation, entitlement, low empathy, and high sexual skills. Sexual narcissists are usually obsessed with sexual superiority and will likely respond to criticism harshly. They may be willing to be coercive or deceitful to obtain sexual opportunities.
- Somatic narcissism describes narcissism related to beauty. Those with somatic narcissism derive their self-worth from their physical appearance. They may obsess over exercise routines and beauty regimens and likely become upset if their appearance is criticized. They may routinely criticize the appearance of others. Somatic narcissists believe that they are the most beautiful person present and react strongly to suggestions otherwise.
- Intellectual narcissism, also called cerebral narcissism, refers to those who express their narcissistic tendencies through displays of intellectual superiority. Intellectual narcissists believe themselves to be incredibly intelligent and often use their intelligence to diminish others. They typically go to great lengths to demonstrate their intelligence and be seen as the smartest in the room.
- Malignant narcissism is a particularly harmful form of narcissism that combines typical narcissistic traits with antisocial and paranoid features. For malignant narcissists, lying, manipulating, and disregarding others is the norm. They likely have little or no capacity for empathy and tend to dehumanize others. They typically harbor a deep sense of mistrust and often feel that others are responsible for transient adverse events in their lives. Malignant narcissism is often associated with an inability to show remorse and or regret harmful actions.
- Adaptive and maladaptive narcissism are both terms used to describe the impact narcissism has on the person exhibiting the behavior. Adaptive narcissism is characterized by authority and self-sufficiency, indicating that narcissism may have some positive components. Maladaptive narcissism is characterized by exploitative behavior and entitlement. It is associated with a higher degree of depression, anxiety, and aggression. While it likely wouldn’t be accurate to call adaptive narcissism “healthy narcissism,” the adaptive-maladaptive dichotomy shows that narcissistic tendencies are not always characteristically negative.
What is the worst type of narcissist?
All forms of narcissism have the potential to cause harm to the person displaying the behavior and those around them. Regarding what type of narcissism can cause the most harm, it is likely that malignant narcissism meets the criteria. Malignant narcissism is characterized by the typical traits of narcissism, such as self-centeredness and a lack of empathy, but also has additional antisocial and paranoid dimensions.
Antisocial behavior is commonly misunderstood, and “antisocial” is often incorrectly interpreted to have a similar meaning to “introvert.” The behaviors of introversion are referred to as asocial behaviors, not antisocial. Antisocial behaviors are those which harm or disregard other human beings. In malignant narcissism, antisocial tendencies don’t rise to the level of antisocial personality disorder, but the lack of empathy and disregard for others is pronounced.
A strong feeling of persecution and paranoia also characterizes malignant narcissism. The person is often irrationally angry at their circumstances and regularly blames others for their situation. They may feel constantly motivated to seek revenge or get payback, often for imagined or insignificant slights.
How do I know if I'm a narcissist?
Likely the best way to find out if you exhibit narcissistic tendencies or meet the criteria for narcissistic personality disorder is to meet with a qualified mental health professional. Only licensed psychologists, psychiatrists, or therapists can diagnose a personality disorder. Diagnosing NPD can be complicated because its symptoms overlap with several other personality disorders, such as borderline personality disorder. Co-occurring mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, may also make diagnosis difficult.
Narcissists rarely seek treatment, as doing so would directly contradict their internal narratives of high self-worth and perfection. Still, those with narcissistic tendencies may be somewhat aware of their behavior and desire to change it. A therapist can help you evaluate the impact of potentially narcissistic tendencies and guide you through a process of change that addresses the underlying causes of the behavior.
Can narcissists be nice?
Narcissists are often nice, funny, and charming when first meeting people. It is not until others get to know them that their more harmful or toxic personality elements emerge. In many cases, whether or not the person is a narcissist doesn't become apparent until long into the relationship. Narcissists are often engaging and interesting to be around in the early days of knowing them, but they tend to display only superficial kindness. They rarely contribute meaningful effort to empathize or help those around them.
What are the 2 faces of narcissism?
Narcissism is often broken into two broad presentations: overt and covert narcissism. Overt narcissism correlates strongly with grandiose-type narcissism and is characterized by exhibitionism, exaggerated self-importance, and a strong desire for attention. It is considered overt because the narcissistic behavior is plainly visible, and other people can often recognize it.
On the other hand, covert narcissism correlates strongly with vulnerable-type narcissism. It is characterized by hypersensitivity to criticism, lack of confidence, and social withdrawal. Like overt narcissists, covert narcissists feel superior to others but hide that belief to prevent it from being threatened. It may be appropriate to say that overt narcissism is “open” narcissism, where the narcissistic traits are displayed proudly. In contrast, covert narcissism is “closed” narcissism and the narcissistic traits are better hidden.
What is a true narcissist?
There is no well-defined construct for what separates a “true” narcissist from those with mere tendencies, except for the diagnostic criteria of narcissistic personality disorder. A person meets the criteria for a diagnosis when their narcissistic tendencies become severe or consistent enough to harm themselves or those around them significantly. Narcissistic tendencies that don’t meet the criteria for diagnosis are often referred to as “sub-clinical” narcissism. Sub-clinical presentations can still be harmful and may benefit from treatment, but from a personality disorder perspective, the person is not a “true” narcissist.
Can narcissists cry?
Narcissists can cry and display any other human emotion. It is possible that narcissists feel some degree of legitimate remorse. How much remorse they are capable of feeling likely depends on the severity of their narcissistic tendencies, the presence of co-occurring disorders, and other personal factors. No two cases of narcissism are the same, and recent research suggests that narcissism exists along a spectrum of severity. Those on the low end of the spectrum may be capable of empathy and compassion.
Does a narcissist apologize?
Narcissists do apologize, but their motives may be suspect. Those with narcissistic tendencies may disregard the feelings of others to achieve their goal, and their apologies may be strategic rather than genuine. Narcissists are more likely to apologize or compromise if they believe they are about to lose something important or stand to gain something from the person to whom they are apologizing.
Narcissists may accompany apologies with promises to change, displays of affection (which may indicate the onset of love bombing), or other empathetic gestures. Most narcissists can display empathy for at least a short time. However, many narcissists also become adept at faking compassionate interactions, which may make the genuineness of the apology challenging to evaluate.
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