Narcissistic personality disorder is a personality disorder in which a person has an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
Although it’s normal for people to have some level of self-esteem and confidence, those who are narcissistic take it to the extreme. Here are 15 warning signs that someone is a narcissist:.
1. They Have a Sense of Entitlement
Narcissists believe that they are entitled to special treatment and privileges. They often think that rules don’t apply to them and that they should always be given what they want.
They may become angry or resentful when they don’t get their way.
2. They Believe They are Superior to Others
Narcissists believe that they are better than others and often express this by boasting about their accomplishments or belittling others. They may also feel that they are entitled to special recognition or admiration that others do not receive.
3. They Lack Empathy
Narcissists have difficulty understanding the feelings of others and lack empathy. They are often unable to put themselves in someone else’s shoes and see things from another person’s perspective.
4. They Are Extremely Competitive
Narcissists are often highly competitive and feel the need to be the best at everything. They may become angry or resentful if someone else is more successful than they are.
5. They Are Manipulative
Narcissists often manipulate others to get what they want. They may charm or flatter people to gain their trust and then use that trust to further their own agenda.
6. They Have a Strong Sense of Self-Importance
Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and may believe that they are more important than others. They may expect others to cater to their needs and desires.
7. They Seek Admiration and Attention
Narcissists crave attention and admiration from others. They may go to great lengths to be noticed or admired, and may become upset or resentful if they don’t receive enough attention or admiration.
8. They Have Trouble Accepting Criticism
Narcissists may become upset or angry if someone criticizes them, even if the criticism is constructive or meant to help them improve. They may see criticism as a threat to their self-esteem and become defensive or hostile in response.
9. They Can Be Highly Reactive
Narcissists can be highly reactive, becoming angry or upset at even minor slights or perceived insults. They may see criticism or even a lack of attention as a personal attack.
10. They Can Be Controlling
Narcissists may try to control the behavior or actions of others to suit their own desires. They may use manipulation, guilt, or other tactics to get what they want and may become angry or upset if they are not able to control others.
11. They Are Often Jealous
Narcissists may become jealous of others who they perceive as being more successful or more admired than they are. They may become resentful or angry if someone else receives attention or admiration that they feel they deserve.
12. They Seek Power and Status
Narcissists often seek power and status and may try to gain it through any means necessary, including manipulation, deception, or even unethical behavior. They may feel that they are entitled to power and status and become upset if they are denied it.
13. They Can Be Cold and Distant
Although narcissists may crave attention and admiration from others, they can also be cold and distant at times. They may not be able to form deep emotional connections with others and may use others for their own purposes.
14. They Can Be Selfish
Narcissists are often selfish and may only think about their own needs and desires. They may not be willing to make sacrifices for others and may become upset if others don’t cater to their needs.
15. They Have Difficulty Maintaining Relationships
Narcissists may have difficulty maintaining relationships with others because of their self-centered behavior.
They may not be able to see things from another person’s perspective and may be unwilling to compromise or make sacrifices for the sake of the relationship.
Conclusion
If you notice any of these warning signs in someone you know, it’s possible that they may have narcissistic personality disorder.
It’s important to remember, however, that only a trained mental health professional can diagnose a personality disorder. If you are concerned about someone’s behavior, it’s important to encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional.