A narcissist is a person who is excessively self-admiring, highly self-centered, and often disregards the needs and emotions of others. The term originates from the Greek mythological character Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection in the water and, unable to love anyone else, met a tragic end.
In psychological terms, narcissism can be a symptom of a Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
Signs of Narcissistic Behavior
People with narcissistic tendencies often display the following behaviors:
- Sense of superiority: They exaggerate their own importance and constantly seek admiration.
- Lack of empathy: They have difficulty understanding or valuing others’ feelings.
- Overreaction to criticism: They can’t tolerate criticism and often respond with defensiveness or contempt.
- Manipulative behavior: They tend to influence others for their own gain.
- Sense of entitlement: They believe rules don’t apply to them and expect special treatment.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
NPD is recognized as a psychological disorder in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Individuals with NPD:
- Struggle with deep insecurities,
- Have an intense need for admiration,
- May feel worthless internally despite their outward behavior.
This condition can lead to serious problems in professional, social, and romantic relationships.
Narcissist vs. High Self-Esteem
People with healthy self-esteem feel valuable but also appreciate and respect others. In contrast, narcissists:
- Overvalue themselves while devaluing others,
- Focus on one-sided benefits in relationships rather than mutual gain.
How to Deal with a Narcissist
If someone in your life displays narcissistic traits:
- Set boundaries: Protect your emotional limits.
- Avoid confrontations: Logical arguments may not be effective.
- Seek support: Professional help can be useful in managing the relationship.
Conclusion
Being a narcissist is not simply having high self-confidence — it can negatively impact relationships, careers, and emotional well-being. Not every narcissistic person has a full-blown personality disorder, but if the signs become severe, professional intervention may be necessary. Only a licensed mental health expert can make a proper diagnosis.
