Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) typically impairs self-awareness, making it difficult for individuals to recognize their narcissistic traits, but professional therapy can help them develop insight, improve relationships, and build healthier coping mechanisms through evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Ever notice how easily we spot certain behaviors in others, yet struggle to recognize them in ourselves? Understanding narcissism isn't just about identifying traits in someone else—it's about gaining deeper insights into patterns that affect relationships and self-awareness, whether for yourself or someone you care about.
Do Narcissistic People Know They Are Narcissistic? Seeking Support For Narcissism
When someone in your life exhibits narcissistic behaviors, their traits may seem obvious to you. However, you might wonder if they’re aware of these characteristics within themselves. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) often lack self-awareness, making it difficult for them to recognize that anything needs to be addressed. Their elevated sense of self-importance can prevent them from seeking help. Whether you believe you may have NPD or know someone who displays narcissistic traits, telehealth therapy can be an excellent resource and support system.
Please note that the use of the words “narcissist” and “narcissism” in this article refers to individuals living with narcissistic personality disorder.
Signs of narcissism
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), narcissistic personality disorder is typically characterized by long-term patterns of abnormal behavior stemming from exaggerated feelings of self-importance, an excessive need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.
These traits can lead individuals with this disorder to take advantage of those around them. Despite the common belief that people with NPD have enormous self-esteem, they may actually feel insecure and empty inside due to an inability to relate to others and a lack of genuine self-worth.
Some traits that people with NPD typically exhibit include:
- An excessive need for admiration from others
- An enormous sense of self-importance
- Continual thoughts about being more powerful, successful, attractive, intelligent, or loved than other people
- A sense of entitlement
- A willingness to take advantage of others to achieve their own goals
- An arrogant attitude toward others
- A lack of understanding or consideration toward other people’s feelings or needs
- A sense of superiority and a tendency to only want to associate with high-status individuals
Associated behaviors can include monopolizing conversations, becoming disdainful when others speak about themselves, and reacting with disproportionate anger if corrected or called out on inappropriate behavior.
Many individuals with NPD view hurt feelings in others as a sign of weakness and may treat them with contempt. They may attempt to control others and insult or blame them if their own ego is wounded.
Risk factors for narcissism
Signs of narcissism typically emerge by early adulthood and may affect up to 5% of the population. While there’s no consensus on the exact cause of NPD, research suggests it may result from a combination of factors:
- Dysfunction in early relationships with parents, family members, or other loved ones
- Genetics
- Childhood traumas, like physical, verbal, or sexual abuse
- Sensory sensitivity (such as sensitivity to light, noise, or textures) in childhood
- Predisposed personality or temperament
NPD often occurs alongside other mental health conditions. A person with NPD may experience episodes of depression and might also live with bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, or other personality disorders, such as borderline, histrionic, antisocial, and paranoid personality disorders.
If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7.
Diagnosing narcissism
The challenge in helping someone with NPD often lies in getting the individual to acknowledge they could benefit from support. Because of their potentially fragile ego and intense avoidance of criticism, it can be difficult for them to admit any need for help.
Often, individuals are only diagnosed with NPD after seeking help for other mental health concerns. They may also agree to see a health professional at the urging of friends and family.
Treatment is possible for people with NPD if they recognize they can benefit from it. Mental health professionals commonly employ a combination of therapeutic approaches for treatment. It’s important to remember that clinical social workers at ReachLink do not prescribe medications but can provide appropriate referrals to qualified medical professionals when needed.