Narcissistic Personality Disorder Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

A person with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) has an excessive obsession for their importance. They always seek attention and admiration from other people. But in an actual sense, they are unaware of their self-worth and can’t tolerate criticism. People with NPD cannot usually show empathy and concern for others’ feelings.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Characteristics

• A feeling of superiority complex
• Need for praise and admiration
• Lack of empathy for others

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Symptoms

• Overestimate their competencies and exaggerate their skills and achievements.
• Fantasize about your success, power, beauty, and achievements.
• Think of themselves as unique or exceptional and should be associated with high-status individuals.
• A tendency to seek compliments from others and an obsessive demand for recognition.
• Getting irritated when someone doesn’t give favourable remarks or attention.
• Aptitude to exploit people to satisfy self-interests and purposes.
• A deficiency in empathy and an inability to acknowledge or connect with the needs and feelings of others.
• Feeling jealous of the success of others and ignoring others’ achievements.
• Behaving arrogantly and authoritatively.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Causes

• Genetics: A person with parents or other close relatives with NPD is more likely to have NPD.
• Learned behaviour: Youngsters might pick up characteristics and behaviors related to NPD by observing, copying, and learning them from others in the family.
• Experiences from childhood : Childhood experiences of rejection, neglect, and criticism can influence ego development and a lack of empathy.
• Parenting approach: A child who is overprotected or pampered excessively by parents may grow up expecting and demanding the same treatment. It could lead to difficulties managing their emotions when things don't go as planned.
• Culture: According to research, societies that place more importance on individualism and authority may risk developing NPD more than those that value cooperation and community feelings.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Diagnosis

• Your symptoms and the effects they have on your life.
• A medical examination is needed to identify any physical issues that may be the source of your problems.
• A comprehensive psychological assessment, sometimes involving answering questions.
• Recommendations are provided in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment

Psychotherapy

• Improve your interpersonal skills to build more fulfilling relationships.
• Recognize the reasons behind your feelings and emotions that provoke narcissistic behaviors.
• Acknowledge and preserve genuine interpersonal connections while cooperating with peers, friends, and others.
• Develop the ability to accept criticism and acknowledge your strengths, limitations, and potential.
• Improve your mental structure and maturity to control your emotions.
• Maintain self-esteem while dealing with issues and encourage cooperation.
• Instead of desiring unattainable goals, learn to set and accept goals you can achieve.

Medication