Narcissistic Personality Disorder versus narcissistic traits and how to recognize them

Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition in which people have an unreasonably high sense of their own importance. They need and seek too much attention and want people to admire them. People with this disorder may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence, they are not sure of their self-worth and are easily upset by the slightest criticism.

Individuals with narcissistic traits may exhibit behaviors that mirror those of narcissistic personality disorder but to a lesser extent. These traits can manifest as arrogance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy towards others. While not as severe as a full-blown disorder, these traits can still impact relationships and daily functioning. People with narcissistic traits may struggle to maintain healthy connections and may find themselves dissatisfied when they don't receive the attention or praise they believe they deserve.

Symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder and how severe they are can vary. People with the disorder can:

• Have an unreasonably high sense of self-importance and require constant, excessive admiration.

• Feel that they deserve privileges and special treatment.

• Expect to be recognized as superior even without achievements.

• Make achievements and talents seem bigger than they are.

• Be preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate.

• Believe they are superior to others and can only spend time with or be understood by equally special people.

• Be critical of and look down on people they feel are not important.

• Expect special favors and expect other people to do what they want without questioning them.

• Take advantage of others to get what they want.

• Have an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others.

• Be envious of others and believe others envy them.

• Behave in an arrogant way, brag a lot and come across as conceited.

• Insist on having the best of everything — for instance, the best car or office.
  

At the same time, people with narcissistic personality disorder have trouble handling anything they view as criticism. They can:

• Become impatient or angry when they don't receive special recognition or treatment.

• Have major problems interacting with others and easily feel slighted.

• React with rage or contempt and try to belittle other people to make themselves appear superior.

• Have difficulty managing their emotions and behavior.

• Experience major problems dealing with stress and adapting to change.

• Withdraw from or avoid situations in which they might fail.

• Feel depressed and moody because they fall short of perfection.

• Have secret feelings of insecurity, shame, humiliation and fear of being exposed as a failure.

Therapy can also be beneficial for individuals with narcissistic traits, helping them gain insight into their behaviors and develop more empathy towards others. It is important to differentiate between occasional narcissistic behaviors and a full-blown personality disorder, as the latter can have more profound and pervasive effects on a person's life. Recognizing and addressing narcissistic traits early on can prevent them from escalating into a more serious condition.