what is narcissism, really?
What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a Cluster B personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.
According to the DSM-5, individuals with NPD often exhibit traits such as an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a preoccupation with fantasies of success or power, a belief in their uniqueness or superiority, and difficulty recognizing or responding to the needs and feelings of others.
However, these surface-level traits often mask deeper vulnerabilities—such as fragile self-esteem, sensitivity to criticism, and a chronic struggle with self-worth. NPD is not simply about being arrogant or self-centered; it reflects a complex psychological organization built around regulating a vulnerable and unstable sense of self. The disorder typically develops in early adulthood and must cause significant impairment or distress across multiple areas of life, such as relationships, work, or emotional wellbeing, to meet diagnostic criteria.
NPD exists on a spectrum and can manifest in both grandiose and vulnerable forms, sometimes fluctuating between the two. Like other Cluster B disorders (which include borderline, histrionic, and antisocial personality disorders), NPD involves difficulties with emotional regulation, identity, and interpersonal functioning.
However, these surface-level traits often mask deeper vulnerabilities—such as fragile self-esteem, sensitivity to criticism, and a chronic struggle with self-worth. NPD is not simply about being arrogant or self-centered; it reflects a complex psychological organization built around regulating a vulnerable and unstable sense of self. The disorder typically develops in early adulthood and must cause significant impairment or distress across multiple areas of life, such as relationships, work, or emotional wellbeing, to meet diagnostic criteria.
NPD exists on a spectrum and can manifest in both grandiose and vulnerable forms, sometimes fluctuating between the two. Like other Cluster B disorders (which include borderline, histrionic, and antisocial personality disorders), NPD involves difficulties with emotional regulation, identity, and interpersonal functioning.
All you need to know about NPD
I refer you to the McClean Provider Guide for Narcissistic Personality Disorder for everything you need to know about NPD.
Narcissism is the process of constructing, maintaining, and defending a coherent sense of self-worth through internal and external regulation mechanisms.
