A narcissist is typically defined as someone who exhibits narcissism, a personality trait characterized by an excessive preoccupation with oneself and an inflated sense of self-importance. Narcissism can involve a lack of empathy for others, a strong need for admiration, and a tendency to exploit relationships for personal gain.
In psychology, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a more severe, clinical form of narcissism. Symptoms of NPD may include:
- A grandiose sense of self-importance
- Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, or beauty
- Believing they are special or unique and can only be understood by other high-status people
- Requiring excessive admiration
- A sense of entitlement
- Being interpersonally exploitative
- Lacking empathy
- Often being envious of others or believing that others are envious of them
- Demonstrating arrogant or haughty behaviors
It's important to note that not everyone who displays narcissistic traits has NPD. Narcissism exists on a spectrum, and many people might show some narcissistic characteristics without having the full disorder.