How to Know You're Dealing with a Narcissist
We all believe we know what narcissism looks like. After all, aren’t a majority of politicians and Hollywood A-listers narcissists?
Narcissism, one of many personality disorders, can actually include behaviors that are obvious or covert.
So how can you tell if you’re dealing with an actual narcissist? Here are a handful of traits from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V):
A Grandiose Sense of Self-Importance
Narcissists see themselves as incredibly essential to the success and happiness of other people. In their eyes, they believe they are capable of exceptionally high levels of achievement, whether they are or aren’t in reality.
They are Special or Unique
Narcissists believe they are so special and unique that few people can really understand them. Many will only want to spend time around high-status people.
A Need for Admiration
We all can admit it feels good to be appreciated and admired. But narcissists have an absolute need for admiration and a lot of it.
A Sense of Entitlement
Narcissists truly believe they are the exception to the rule. If there is a line of people waiting to be seated, a narcissist will cut that line because why should they of all people be forced to wait? If you’ve spent any amount of time around an actual narcissist, their entitlement can be shocking as it seems to know no bounds.
A Lack of Empathy
Narcissists do not sense how others feel. When you can’t empathize or feel for someone else's emotions, it is possible to hurt those around you.
If you identify with any of these traits or are in a relationship with someone who does, please give me a call. I'd like to help you work through your emotional pain. Therapy for personality disorders can support you with increasing your awareness and developing effective coping strategies to manage these behaviors.
Please reach out today to find out how to handle living with this condition.
SOURCES:
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/14-signs-of-narcissism
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lifetime-connections/202110/the-13-traits-narcissist
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/narcissistic-personality-disorder