Narcissism is a personality disorder that affects up to 6% of the population. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) often have a grandiose sense of self-importance and an excessive need for admiration.

They lack empathy and have a personality marked by a sense of entitlement and a willingness to exploit others for personal gain.

Why Is Spotting Narcissists Important?

Dealing with a narcissist can be emotionally draining, both personally and professionally. Being in a relationship with a narcissist can be especially challenging, as they can be volatile and unpredictable.

It is essential to spot the warning signs of narcissistic behavior early on to protect yourself from harm.

The Narcissistic Personality Test

The Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) is a psychological test that measures narcissistic traits in individuals.

The test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that assess different aspects of narcissism, such as grandiosity, entitlement, dominance, and self-esteem.

While taking the test might be a good idea, there is an even simpler way to spot a narcissist – just ask a few questions!.

The Simple Test

The test is straightforward. All you have to do is ask a narcissist about someone they admire. It can be anyone – a celebrity, a family member, a friend, or a coworker.

The key to this test is the narcissist’s response. If they admire someone who is successful or accomplished, it is a positive sign. However, if they admire someone purely for their looks, popularity, or influence, it is a red flag.

A narcissist is more likely to admire superficial qualities in others because they are not capable of seeing the true worth of someone else. They tend to focus on themselves and often compare themselves to others.

They feel threatened by people who are more successful or have more significant achievements. As a result, they surround themselves with people they feel superior to – people who will boost their ego and make them feel better about themselves.

Examples of Narcissistic Responses

Here are some examples of narcissistic responses to the question, “Who do you admire?”.

Positive: “I admire Richard Branson. He’s a successful entrepreneur who has accomplished so much in his life.”
Red flag: “I really admire Kim Kardashian. She’s so beautiful, and everyone knows who she is.”
Positive: “I admire my mother. She’s a hard-working woman who sacrificed so much to raise me.”
Red flag: “I admire Justin Bieber. He’s so famous and talented, and everyone loves him.”

As you can see, a narcissist’s response will reveal a lot about their personality. If they admire someone superficially, it is a sign that they are more focused on external validation than inner growth.

Conclusion

Spotting a narcissist can be challenging, but using this simple test can help you identify them quickly. Remember, a narcissist is more likely to admire someone for superficial reasons than true accomplishments.

Keep an eye out for red flags, and don’t be afraid to distance yourself from someone who exhibits narcissistic behavior.