We are hearing a lot about narcissistic people these days, but readers may not know narcissism is a personality disorder. What we know is people with narcissistic personalities were injured at a very young age and are not capable of healthy adult relationships.
Do you know a narcissist? The odds may be higher than you think. About one out of every 20 people are narcissistic. Below are the top 12 characteristics of narcissistic individuals:
- Need to feel in control, as having others in charge makes them feel vulnerable.
- Exhibit an unawareness of the impact of their actions on those around them.
- Avoids giving to others when it is not convenient.
- Lack empathy and the ability to respond to the feelings and needs of others.
- Exhibit the appearance of dominance as an attempt to hide their insecurities and low self-esteem. Preoccupied with power and success.
- Can’t be good parents as they are not capable of the emotional closeness necessary to raise healthy children.
- Have trouble with intimacy in personal relationships due to their fear of vulnerability.
- Feel a need to be adored by others and often require constant admiration.
- Tend to be judgmental and critical of themselves, rarely thinking they have accomplished enough.
- Sense of Self-importance and often arrogant
- Lack respect for the boundaries of other people.
- Tend to lie or omit the truth.
Helpful information:
Generally, narcissists do not seek treatment unless they experience a significant loss or their narcissistic defenses begin to give way severely. Nevertheless, if a narcissist does seek and stick with treatment, there is hope for them to recover and thrive.