The main types of narcissism include overt, covert, antagonistic, communal, and malignant.
It is possible to have narcissistic traits, however, and not have NPD.
Also, all people with NPD will look or behave the same way.
Antonio Saba / Getty Images
Antonio Saba / Getty Images
1.
Overt Narcissism
Overt narcissism is the classic and most obvious form of NPD.
Overt narcissism is also called grandiose narcissism.
Someone with overt narcissism is excessively preoccupied with how others see them.
They may experience aggression, poor interpersonal relationships, and lower psychological well-being as a result of their behavior.
Overt narcissists may be high-achieving and deeply sensitive to criticism, no matter how slight.
Covert narcissists tend to use softer tactics than overt narcissists.
However, someone living with covert narcissism may display more subtle and passive negative behaviors.
They also may see themselves as a suffering victim.
Key traits include:
Someone with antagonistic narcissism may venture to exploit others to get ahead.
They may put others down or start arguments in an attempt to gain the upper hand or appear dominant.
At first, they can come across as selfless or even as a martyr.
However, their internal motivation is to earn praise and admiration, not help others.
Malignant Narcissism
Malignant narcissismis often seen as the most severe or potentially abusive form of NPD.
In one study, over 21% of inmates in a single prison met the diagnostic criteria for NPD.
Subtypes of Narcissism
Some researchers identify two narcissism subtypes: the grandiose-malignant and the high-functioning individual.
Some also categorize vulnerable (covert) narcissists as a subtype.
4 Core Signs of Narcissism
Four key elements are associated with narcissism.
A person with NPD will often have all of these signs to a great extent, all the time.
Do Narcissists Gaslight?
Anyone can usegaslightingmaking someone doubt their realityto manipulate others, so it’s not a sure sign of narcissism.
However, gaslighting is often associated with a narcissist personality.
Narcissistic Personality Traits vs.
Disorder
Having narcissistic traits doesn’t necessarily mean you have NPD.
The difference largely comes down to how present and impactful narcissism is in one’s daily life.
In fact, someone with NPD may not even recognize they are problematic.
They are also likely to be more aware of their tendencies and open to changing them.
It’s developmentally normal for kids and teens to have a “world revolves around me” centeredness.
Diagnosis
People with NPD do not generally seek mental health evaluation and treatment for their personality disorder.
Sometimes, a persons loved ones notice their behaviors before they do.
Some people show narcissistic behaviors but are not diagnosed with NPD.
What if Its Not NPD?
Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions.
If a person with NPD is open to it, taking part in psychotherapy can be beneficial.
You may wonder how to “fix” the problem, but a mental health diagnosis requires clinical care.
Keep in mind that:
Don’t hesitate to seek support from family and friends.
Other viewpoints and feedback can help to balance against the distorted perceptions and gaslighting you may experience with narcissism.
People can have narcissistic traits without having NPD.
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