Narcissism is a personality disorder categorized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

While many people may display some narcissistic traits, those with Narcissistic Personality Disorder exhibit a pattern of behavior that impairs their ability to function in relationships and society. Here are 20 traits that expose a narcissistic personality:.

1. Exaggerated sense of self-importance

A narcissist thinks highly of themselves, believing they are exceptional and better than others. They demand recognition and admiration and may feel entitled to special treatment, making it challenging to get along with them.

2. Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, and brilliance

Narcissists have grandiose ambitions and unrealistic expectations of themselves and others. They often believe they are destined for greatness and can’t understand why others don’t see their potential.

3. Sense of entitlement

A narcissist may believe they deserve special treatment, rewards, or praise without putting in the necessary work or effort. They may be unwilling to accept criticism and may become angry or defensive when confronted.

4. Requires excessive admiration

A narcissist craves constant attention and validation, needing others to admire and praise them at all times. They may feel insulted or attacked when others don’t recognize their achievements or give them the respect they feel they deserve.

5. Lack of empathy

A narcissist has a hard time seeing things from other people’s perspectives and struggles to empathize with others.

They may not take others’ feelings or needs into consideration, making it hard for them to maintain healthy relationships or friendships.

6. Envious of others or believes others are envious of them

A narcissist may envy others’ success and become jealous or resentful of those who they feel are better than them.

Conversely, they may believe that others are envious of them and their accomplishments, thinking that others are just jealous and insecure.

7. Arrogant and boastful

Narcissists are often arrogant and boastful, showing off their achievements and abilities to others. They may brag about their accomplishments, exaggerate their abilities, and belittle others who they feel are inferior to them.

8. Exploits others for their own gain

A narcissist may take advantage of others to achieve their goals or satisfy their desires. They may manipulate, use, or exploit others to get what they want, and have little regard for others’ feelings or needs.

9. Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships

Narcissists struggle to maintain healthy relationships because of their self-centered behavior.

They may have a hard time compromising or seeing things from another person’s perspective, making it difficult for them to connect with others on a deeper level.

10. Lack of accountability

A narcissist may refuse to take responsibility for their actions or mistakes, blaming others for their problems or shortcomings. They may have a hard time admitting when they are wrong or acknowledging how their behavior impacts others.

11. Puts own needs above others

A narcissist prioritizes their own needs and desires above others, making it hard for them to see how their actions impact those around them.

They may demand that others cater to their needs and become angry or resentful when others don’t fulfill their expectations.

12. Prone to anger and frustration

A narcissist may become angry or frustrated when their needs are not met or when they feel threatened. They may take criticism or rejection as a personal attack, lashing out at others and becoming defensive to protect themselves.

13. Disregards boundaries and privacy

A narcissist may have difficulty respecting other people’s boundaries or privacy, believing that they have the right to invade other people’s personal space or take advantage of them.

They may attempt to control others’ lives or monitor their activities to ensure that they are getting what they want.

14. Difficulty handling criticism or rejection

A narcissist may have a hard time accepting criticism or rejection, viewing it as an attack on their character or sense of self.

They may become defensive, angry, or aggressive in response, making it challenging to provide constructive feedback or maintain a healthy relationship with them.

15. Has an excessive need for control

A narcissist may have an excessive need for control in all aspects of their life, including personal relationships and professional situations.

They may feel threatened when they are not in control, becoming anxious or angry when others don’t follow their lead.

16. Superiority complex

A narcissist may believe they are superior to others, seeing themselves as above normal rules and expectations. They may disregard social norms, laws, or ethical principles, feeling that they are above them and that they deserve special treatment.

17. Lack of self-awareness

A narcissist may have a hard time understanding how their behavior or actions impact others.

They may lack the self-awareness necessary to see themselves objectively, making it challenging for them to grow and develop their emotional intelligence or empathy skills.

18. Impulsive behavior

A narcissist may act impulsively, making rash decisions without considering the consequences. They may engage in risky behaviors or take necessary risks, believing that their invincibility will protect them from harm.

19. Uninterested in others

A narcissist may be uninterested or disengaged in other people’s lives, feeling that their problems and concerns are irrelevant or unimportant.

They may ignore others’ needs or experiences, focusing solely on their own desires and ambitions.

20. Difficulty maintaining long-term relationships

A narcissist may struggle to maintain long-term relationships because of their self-centered behavior. They may become bored or disinterested in others, or they may drive others away with their arrogance or need for control.