Who is a Narcissist? Traits, Types and Coping Tips
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Narcissist traits are derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus. (He fell in love with himself after seeing his reflection on a pond while drinking water and remained rooted at that spot ever after.)
They, therefore, refer to personality traits characterized by an excessive focus on one’s self and needs.
The culprit feels they deserve attention for their perceived importance. Consequently, they become obsessed with the ideas of success and perfection. Besides, they are critical of others they feel are lesser than them, hence not important.
Altogether, there have been references to this fascinating psychological phenomenon since prehistoric times. Let us look at them in detail.

Types of Narcissistic Personalities
Whereas narcissistic personality disorders have many types, within the spectrum of trait narcissism, two primary types emerge.
- The grandiose narcissist, who displays an overt sense of superiority coupled with dominance and aggression.
- The vulnerable narcissist, whose self-absorption manifests as insecurity and emotional sensitivity.
Signs and Symptoms
It’s easy to spot narcissistic traits. The behaviors include:
- An insatiable need for admiration.
- A lack of empathy.
- An overarching sense of entitlement and self-importance.
- Success fantasies and the need to have the best in life.
- Superiority complex.
- Use others to achieve their goals.
- Detest criticism.
Causes of Narcissism
Though it is difficult to place a finger on narcissistic origins, the development of narcissistic tendencies is often linked to childhood experiences, including overindulgence or neglect.
A neglected child, when young, would feel a sense of completion if they exacted vengeance by humiliating others and feeling above them.
What about a child who was bullied in their formative stages? Chances are that they’ll turn out to be bullies as well in their adult lives. And the most common way this manifests itself is through narcissistic tendencies.
By the same token, a child who grew up being pampered also stands at risk of having narcissistic tendencies.
Other causes could include a genetic or biological basis, e.g., inherited traits of personality.
Effects on Relationships
Individuals with narcissistic traits often struggle to form connections. In addition, already-existing connections suffer from time to time.
In effect, narcissists resort to manipulative behaviors to maintain control in relationships.
The relationships that suffer include:
- School or college relations where others isolate you.
- Colleagues at work: The workplace is not immune to narcissistic behavior, with colleagues exhibiting traits that can disrupt team dynamics. Understanding how to navigate such situations is crucial for professional success.
- Love relationships. The demand partner will, at last, fall out with you to seek more reasonable and accommodating partners.
Digital Narcissism
With the emergence of digital platforms, narcissistic tendencies have found new avenues for expression
Online platforms have become breeding grounds for validation-seeking behavior, and narcissism has been on a steady rise as a result.
You can counter this by being humble in your social posts. Don’t focus too much on the likes you get. Also, ignore self-promoting and arrogant posts while at the same time learning to accept what others post without being bitter.
Coping Strategies for Dealing With a Narcissist
For those dealing with narcissists, keep in mind that dealing with them is hard because, as noted above, they lack empathy.

However, here is a strategy you can employ to effectively deal with them:.
- Establish clear boundaries. Let them know what you can and can’t stomach from them.
- Play their own game. Act interested while with them when they give suggestions, but don’t commit.
- Since they’d love to apportion blame on you, don’t let it get into your head. Remember, they are the ones at fault.
- To counter the low self-esteem strategy they shove on you to their advantage, strive to build your self-esteem. This will keep them at bay.
- Seek support and leave the relationship (in whatever form) at your earliest convenience. Remember, the narcissist also needs help and support.
These are essential strategies for maintaining your mental and emotional well-being.
Myths and Misconceptions
Narcissism may be a general subject. We need to look at it critically since the traits may be varied for different individuals.
Therefore, it is necessary to debunk common myths about narcissism in order to encourage a deeper understanding of this complex personality trait.
The following are general myths and facts about narcissism:
#1. Narcissists want to harm people. The fact is that they hardly intend to do so. They are so consumed with self-importance that they do not realize the hurt they cause.
#2. They are evil. Fact: With the need to appear important, most have done good deeds for the society they live in
#3. They are immoral. Fact: While some are immoral, not all qualify as such. Just like not all pastors are moral, eh?
#4. They are not all aggressive
#5. They have high self-esteem. Not always! Sometimes they put on an appearance of confidence just to feel good while hiding their true colors. It takes a sophisticated grasp of motives and behaviors to distinguish between healthy confidence and dangerous narcissism.
Celebrities and Narcissism
High-profile individuals often face public scrutiny for perceived narcissistic behavior, shedding light on the intersection of fame and personality disorders.
Be that as it may, several high-ranking celebrities have narcissistic tendencies, chief among them actors.
Narcissist Impact on Mental Health
Narcissism and mental health conditions do, in fact, coexist. You may find a narcissist with conditions such as
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Substance abuse
- Paranoia
This emphasizes how crucial it is to get professional guidance in order to receive complete treatment

Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding narcissism involves acknowledging its various forms, causes, and effects on individuals and society.
It is essential to strike a balance between awareness and empathy to promote a more sympathetic understanding of this complex aspect of the human mind.
Do you have any ideas on narcissistic tendencies? Please share them
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is narcissism always a sign of a personality disorder?
Not necessarily. While narcissistic traits can be challenging, they don’t always indicate a diagnosable disorder. It’s essential to consider the degree and impact of these traits on daily functioning.
Q: Can narcissism be treated?
Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) involves psychotherapy. However, individuals with milder narcissistic traits may not necessarily seek or require formal treatment.
Q: How can I set boundaries with a person with narcissistic tendencies?
Setting clear and assertive boundaries is crucial. Communicate your limits calmly and consistently, reinforcing the importance of mutual respect.
Q: What’s the difference between confidence and narcissism?
While confidence is a healthy form of self-assurance, narcissism involves an excessive focus on oneself (selfishness) at the expense of others. The key lies in the balance between self-assurance and empathy for others.
James is a published author, blogger, and content writer.
He writes about relationships, marriage, and self-improvement to bring out the best in you.
When not writing, he enjoys having a bourbon and coke, playing with his cat, and traveling the world to discover new places.