Narcissism is a multi-dimensional personality disorder that is characterized by a sense of self-importance, a craving for attention, and a lack of empathy. The first step toward dealing with narcissists is to recognize these 19 traits.
A sense of self-importance
A very common characteristic of narcissistic people is having an inflated sense of self-importance. They often exaggerate their importance in groups and with other people, the Mayo Clinic says. They brag about their achievements and need to be seen as better than others.
Daydreaming about achieving power, beauty, or success
Narcissists also tend to fantasize about achieving power, beauty, or success. Obsession with unrealities fuels their ambitions and can lead to frustration when reality doesn’t align with their fantasies.
Seeking admiration from others
Another easy thing to spot about narcissists is that they’re always looking for a pat on the back. They seek validation and admiration from external sources constantly, so it can prove their self-worth.
Being the center of attention
Narcissists have a desire to be the center of attention, and if they don’t get the attention they crave, they can become disrespectful or upset and try to seek admiration elsewhere. They believe they deserve more attention than others. Duke Health mentions that they also love to brag constantly.
A sense of entitlement
If you’ve ever been around someone who expects you to comply with their expectations all the time, is always asking for more things in comparison to anyone else, and is either demanding or arrogant, there’s a possibility this person has narcissistic tendencies.
Grandiose narcissism
Another easy-to-recognize characteristic of narcissists is that they automatically expect people to treat them with gratitude but don’t give them the same back. They don’t reciprocate favors, and this may be because their childhood dictated they were superior to others. They expect to be treated well, and when they aren’t, they get angry. WebMD calls this ‘grandiose narcissism.’
Using others
Narcissists often take advantage of others for their own benefit. They view others as ‘tools’ for their satisfaction by doing or saying whatever they want, without considering how it affects those around them.
Lacking empathy
A notable attribute of narcissism is a lack of empathy. They can struggle to connect with or understand the emotions and needs of others, even when it’s blatantly obvious, and either completely dismiss or ignore them altogether.
They get envious
Narcissists may harbor envy for others’ accomplishments or assets while also believing that others are envious of them. This perception further feeds into their sense of superiority.
They tend to be arrogant
An arrogant and conceited demeanor is also a very obvious trait of narcissists, which is frequently seen in their conversations, mannerisms, and how they handle criticism. They often come across as disdainful and snobbish.
Insisting on having the best of everything
Those with narcissistic tendencies often have a strong desire to own only the best of everything or top-tier items and experiences. They look for brands and exclusive events to bolster their perceived status.
Talking excessively about themselves
In social situations and gatherings, these individuals tend to dominate conversations by steering the topic toward themselves or their interests. They also annoyingly interrupt others to ensure that all attention remains focused on them.
Engaging in controlling behavior
These types of people also find ways to employ tactics to manipulate situations and people to gain a personal advantage. This controlling behavior can be observed in multiple facets of life, such as workplace environments and relationship dynamics.
Being highly sensitive to criticism
Despite projecting confidence, narcissists are often hypersensitive when it comes to receiving criticism or perceiving slights. They may react with anger or contempt, trying to belittle the person as a means of protecting their ego.
Struggling with maintaining long-term relationships
Because they lack empathy and have a sense of entitlement, it can be difficult for narcissists to maintain long-term relationships. Their questionable tendencies put a strain on relationships and make it difficult to form genuine connections.
Expectations of perfect love
Narcissists frequently harbor unrealistic expectations of perfect love, which can result in intense but short-lived relationships. They may anticipate their partner catering exclusively to their needs and not want to engage in compromise.
Projecting their insecurities
Narcissistic people have the propensity to project their insecurities and faults onto others, and they often do this by blame-shifting, belittling, or criticizing them. They’re also masters at coming up with excuses for their bad behavior.
They are easily dissatisfied
Due to their superiority complex and sense of entitlement, narcissists are often dissatisfied with their superiors, colleagues, and eventually their jobs. This makes it difficult for them to keep a job for a long time.
No regard for people’s boundaries
People with these traits don’t respect other people’s boundaries; they disregard them and try to push their limits. Anything from relationships that need space to conversations that need distance, they’re oblivious to them and only want their own needs met, no matter what impact it has on others.