A narcissist is a person who has an excessive preoccupation with oneself and ones own needs, often at the expense of others. Narcissism exists on a continuum that ranges from normal to abnormal personality expression. While many psychologists believe that a moderate degree of narcissism is normal and healthy in humans, there are also more extreme forms, observable particularly in people who are excessively self-absorbed, or who have a mental illness like narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), where the narcissistic tendency has become pathological, leading to functional impairment and psychosocial disability.
Here are some signs of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) :
- Sense of self-importance
- Preoccupation with power, beauty, or success
- Entitled
- Can only be around people who are important or special
- Interpersonally exploitative for their own gain
- Arrogant
- Lack of empathy
- Envious of others or believes others are envious of them
- Requires excessive admiration
People with NPD may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. They may find their relationships troubled and unfulfilling, and other people may not enjoy being around them. Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy.
