Mental Health
Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a deep need for excessive attention and admiration.
About Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Narcissistic Personality Disorder involves a persistent pattern of self-centered, arrogant thinking and behavior. People with NPD often have a lack of empathy and disregard for other people's feelings. This disorder is not just about vanity or self-love; it is rooted in an inflated self-image that helps people with NPD avoid deep feelings of insecurity.
The effort to maintain their grandiose self-image results in dysfunctional attitudes and behaviors, impacting all areas of their lives including work, friendships, and intimate relationships. These people are highly resistant to change and often blame others for their problems. They react strongly to criticism and perceived slights, which they interpret as personal attacks.
Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Grandiose Sense of Self-Importance
People with NPD often exaggerate their achievements and talents, believing they are superior to others and expect recognition even without accomplishments.
Fantasy World that Supports Delusions of Grandeur
To maintain their inflated self-image, narcissists live in a world of self-glorifying fantasies involving success, power, brilliance, and ideal love. They ignore or rationalize away any facts that contradict their fantasies.
Constant Need for Praise and Admiration
Narcissists require continuous affirmation to keep their egos inflated. They surround themselves with people who cater to their obsessive need for admiration.
Sense of Entitlement
People with NPD expect special treatment and compliance with their wishes. They believe they deserve everything they want and expect others to fulfill their needs without reciprocation.
Exploitation of Others
Narcissists lack empathy and often take advantage of others without guilt or shame, and they see people as tools to be used for their own benefit.
Frequent Demeaning, Intimidation, or Belittlement of Others
Narcissists may insult, bully, or belittle others, especially those who challenge them or possess qualities they envy.
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