Mental Health
Types of Narcissism: A Close Look at Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Narcissism can come in many different forms. The types of narcissism that make up narcissistic personality disorder range from obvious to subtle.
Understanding the different types of narcissism, narcissistic personality traits, and narcissistic behavior can be vital in recognizing patterns within ourselves or in those we care about, especially when dealing with challenges like addiction or recovery.
Each type of narcissism, including narcissistic types and narcissistic personality disorder types, presents unique characteristics that may influence one's behavior, personality, and interactions.
As you explore this article, you'll gain insights into these variations, empowering you to navigate personal and relational dynamics better. This knowledge is not only enlightening but can also be a crucial step in your journey toward healing and growth.
What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterized by an inflated sense of importance, a deep need for admiration, and a notable lack of empathy towards others. If you or someone you know is grappling with these feelings, you are not alone.
This personality disorder can deeply affect your interactions and relationships, making it challenging to connect with others in meaningful ways. Understanding NPD is a crucial step toward managing its symptoms and improving your relationships. Through knowledge and support, navigating these challenges becomes more manageable, paving the way for better understanding and healing.
What Causes Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
The exact causes of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) are not fully understood, but they are believed to be a complex blend of factors:
Genetic Influences
Like many psychological disorders, NPD may have a genetic component. Studies suggest that the traits associated with narcissism can be heritable, indicating that if you have family members with NPD, your risk of developing the condition may be higher.
Environmental Factors
The environment in which you grow up plays a critical role in the development of NPD. This can include parenting styles such as excessive pampering or high expectations, emotional abuse, or neglect. Exposure to certain behaviors can also shape or reinforce narcissistic tendencies.
Neurobiology
The connections and functioning of the brain also contribute to the manifestation of NPD. Differences in the brain structures involved in empathy and emotional regulation might influence narcissistic behaviors.
Psychological Factors
Early childhood experiences, particularly those involving interpersonal relationships with caregivers, are significant. A history of unstable, unresponsive, or inconsistent care can lead to the development of narcissistic traits as a coping mechanism to manage insecurity and low self-esteem.
Understanding these factors can help in recognizing the complexities of NPD, fostering compassion both for oneself and for others affected by this disorder.
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Common Narcissistic Personality Disorder Symptoms
The individual diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder has various characteristics and symptoms. A few of these symptoms are mentioned below.
Exaggerated self-importance and entitlement.
Fragile self-esteem that needs constant admiration.
Highly defensive when it comes to criticism
The tendency to inflate one's talents and achievements,
Expect special favors because of self-entitled behavior.
Have recurring thoughts of gaining power and control over others.
Manipulative streak for self-gains.
The tendency to exploit others to get whatever they desire.
Lack empathy and cannot understand other's feelings.
What Are the Types of Narcissism?
Officially, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) only recognizes the overt form of narcissism. It does not include the several other types of narcissism. Mental health professionals have worked with these types, and there are 5 types of NPD. Some of them are mentioned below.
Overt or Grandiose Narcissism
Overt narcissism, or grandiose narcissism, is the most common type. This type is recognized officially and is characterized by a sense of superiority and entitlement. They view themselves as special and above others and have an inflated sense of self. They are extremely sensitive to criticism and cannot understand perspectives different than theirs.
Most of the time, their thoughts are occupied by how others see them and create an exaggerated image.
Covert Narcissism
Also known as vulnerable narcissism, covert narcissism is the opposite of overt narcissism. These types of individuals seek the admiration and praise of others while being shy and self-deprecating. They fish for compliments and try to show that they are martyrs. Like overt narcissists, they, too, are sensitive to criticism. They often think that their struggles and challenges are greater than anyone else.
Covert narcissists also struggle with self-esteem and self-worth issues.
Antagonistic Narcissism
As the name suggests, antagonistic narcissists are very competitive. They are earnest about their rivalries with others and have immense arrogance and pride. They do not want second positions as they want to come on top of everything. They want to control things, so they can be manipulative. People with this NPD can take advantage of others to assert their dominance.
Malignant Narcissism
This is an extreme form of narcissism where a person can seek pleasure in hurting others. They tend to show their superiority and can turn sadists, too. They are highly egotistical, with severe traits like paranoia, aggression, and nil empathy for others.
Communal Narcissism
Identifying narcissist traits in NPD subtypes like covert narcissism and communal narcissism is difficult. Since they do not have overt characteristics, one may not notice them. However, underneath it all, they desire and crave praise and admiration. All their motivation is channeled toward gaining that.
Many communal narcissists are at the forefront of social causes and are the face of charities. They try to portray themselves as helpful, kind-hearted, caring, and empathetic of others' pain.
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How to Manage a Narcissist & Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Managing interactions with someone who has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) or strong narcissistic traits can be challenging but there are strategies that can help you navigate these relationships more effectively:
Set Clear Boundaries: Establishing firm boundaries is crucial. Be clear about what behavior you will and will not tolerate. It's important to communicate your boundaries directly and calmly and to enforce them consistently.
Manage Expectations: Adjust your expectations when dealing with a narcissist. Recognize that their behavior is often driven by their needs and may not change significantly, even with intervention. Protecting your emotional well-being by keeping realistic expectations is key.
Stay Calm and Objective: When interacting with a narcissist, try to remain calm and objective. Avoid getting emotionally drawn into their drama. Respond to their actions and words without emotional investment and with a focus on facts.
Seek Support: Dealing with a narcissist can be draining. Support from therapists, support groups, or loved ones who understand what you are dealing with can provide relief and additional strategies.
Encourage Professional Help: If the situation allows, encourage the individual with NPD to seek professional help. Therapy can be beneficial for those with NPD to learn how to relate to others more healthily and to address underlying issues.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your own mental health. Engaging in activities that you enjoy and that relax you, such as spending time with loved ones, exercising, or pursuing hobbies, can help maintain your emotional resilience.
By employing these strategies, you can better manage your interactions with a narcissist, while also taking care of your own emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment & Recovery
Treating narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), along with other personality disorders, can be challenging due to the inherent rigidity in a person's thought patterns, behaviors, and actions. Despite some misconceptions, it is false to claim that these conditions are untreatable. Overcoming the negative traits of a personality disorder requires significant effort, determination, and patience.
Fortunately, several effective treatment options are available for those struggling with NPD.
Psychotherapy
The treatments focus primarily on psychotherapy, which is tailored to each individual's condition and can vary in duration depending on the severity of symptoms. Psychotherapy helps patients confront their reluctance toward treatment, understand the underlying causes of their symptoms, and recognize how their behaviors affect others. It also encourages the replacement of self-centered and grandiose thoughts with more realistic perceptions and healthier behavior patterns.
Key psychotherapies used in treating NPD include:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is a type of therapy that helps NPD patients control emotions, improve relationship and interpersonal skills, cope with daily life stressors, and enhance mindfulness.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Patients replace old, rigid patterns with positive and healthy habits in CBT.
Gestalt Therapy
This is different from others as gestalt therapy focuses on the present. They don't let patients dwell in the past and emphasize how their actions impact them and the people around them.
Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT)
MBT is a therapy that improves the ability of the patient to understand their own behavior. The patients reflect on their own thoughts, emotions, behavior, and actions. They learn to connect emotions with their own actions and behavior.
Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP)
In TFP, therapists ask patients to transfer emotions related to someone else onto them. It simplifies the process of understanding other's behavior.
Schema Therapy
It is a unique form of therapy that combines the features of CBT and talk therapy. It helps in identifying and bringing unhealthy coping mechanisms to the surface.
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Navigating Narcissism? The Edge Treatment Center Is Here for You
In exploring the various types of narcissism, you've taken an important step towards understanding and addressing complex personality dynamics that can profoundly affect personal and professional relationships.
Like other personality disorders, diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder isn’t easy. These treatable mental disorders strongly affect the way a person sees themselves and the world around them. In many cases, people with these disorders may not realize they actually have a mental disorder…until it leaves them isolated, alone, and struggling with other issues, like depression and substance abuse,
But there’s hope. If you or someone you care about is struggling with narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder, The Edge Treatment Center offers tailored support and comprehensive treatment options for NPD and more.
We're here to help you on your journey to recovery, empowering you to forge a healthier, more fulfilling life. Reach out to us today to learn more.
We’re Here To Help You Find Your Way
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Our team can guide you on your journey to recovery. Call us today.
Written by
Brian MooreContent Writer
Reviewed by
Jeremy ArztChief Clinical Officer
Mental Health
October 16, 2024
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Identifying a narcissist can be challenging as they often display behaviors that may initially seem positive, such as generosity or charm. However, these behaviors are typically self-serving and lack genuine empathy.
Overt narcissism is characterized by obvious self-centeredness, a high need for admiration, and often an exhibitionistic tendency. Individuals with this type of narcissism are usually very extroverted and seek to be the center of attention.
Covert narcissism, also known as vulnerable narcissism, involves more subtle manifestations like sensitivity to criticism, insecurity, and a tendency to play the victim while still maintaining a strong need for admiration.
Read moreCommunal narcissists present themselves as altruistic and involved in community and social causes. However, their primary motivation is to gain admiration and praise, rather than genuine concern for others.
Narcissism can have a genetic component, suggesting that individuals may inherit certain traits that predispose them to develop narcissistic tendencies. However, environmental factors also play a significant role in the development of these traits.