Understanding Narcissism

Narcissism is a personality disorder, and it’s important to understand this upfront. Thinking you can “cure” or “fix” a narcissist is a misconception, narcissism appears to be as unchangeable as colour blindness.

According to Wikipedia, “Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) or megalomania is a personality disorder characterised by a long-term pattern of exaggerated feelings of self-importance, an excessive craving for admiration, and struggles with empathy.”

The Mayo Clinic describes NPD as “a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others.”

Common Characteristics of Narcissism

• Unrealistic, grandiose self-image

• Incredibly self-centred

• Speak only about themselves

• Feeling special and unique

• Arrogance and haughtiness

• Quick to criticise and judge others

• Highly sensitive to criticism

• Think the rules don’t apply to them

• Constant self-promotion

• Feeling entitled to the best of everything

• Value power and fame

• Demand constant acknowledgment

• Respond with aggression when questioned

• Deceitful and manipulative

  
  

Beyond Narcissism: The Dark Triad

Narcissism is just one of several troubling personality disorders. A particularly concerning set is the Dark Triad, which includes Narcissism, Psychopathy, and Machiavellianism.

These three disorders share common traits:

• Self-centredness

• Grandiose self-image

• Manipulative behaviour toward others

  
  

While narcissism alone can strain relationships, the Dark Triad disorders can pose even more serious risks. In future posts, we will explore Psychopathy and Machiavellianism, diving deeper into how these traits affect human behaviour and relationships.