Do you know someone who likes to be the center of attention? Or someone who brags and exaggerates their accomplishments? Chances are, you’ve heard these people referred to as “narcissists.” But is this simply a casual label or something more serious? If so, is it Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)? The DSM-V has outlined nine traits that they identify as being diagnostic of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It's important to understand just what qualifies for a diagnosis of NPD in order to ensure accurate handling and management for those involved - both parties and those close by like family members, friends or colleagues. In this blog post we will explore what the DSM-V outlines about NPD; clarifying the distinction between everyday narcissistic behavior from an actual disorder.
Explaining the Difference Between Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder
It is not uncommon to hear people carelessly referring to someone as narcissistic, but actually diagnosing someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) according to the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) requires more than just a few self-centered behaviors. Although people who suffer from NPD may be described as grandiose, attention-seeking, and vain, they are also likely to experience feelings of loneliness and emptiness. Symptoms related to NPD can significantly interfere with relationships, careers, and everyday life. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms like these, it may be worth consulting with a mental health professional for further evaluation.
DSM-V Criteria for Diagnosing NPD
A pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behaviour), need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by 5 (or more) of the following:
1. Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g. - exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)
2. Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love
3. Believes that he or she is “special” and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)
4. Requires excessive admiration
5. Has a sense of entitlement (i.e. - unreasonable expectations of especially favourable treatment or automatic compliance with his or her expectations)
6. Is interpersonally exploitative (i.e. - takes advantage of others to achieve his or her own ends)
7. Lacks empathy: is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others
8. Is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her
9. Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes.
Causes of NPD, Including Genetic and Environmental Factors
While it is easy to refer to someone as a narcissist in casual conversation, true Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is complex and involves multiple factors. The exact causes of NPD are not yet known conclusively, however, research suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental factors can contribute to the disorder. It is believed that parenting styles that put too much importance on the child’s achievements or those with an inconsistent approach to discipline may lead to NPD. A person's genetics may also play a role; people who have family members diagnosed with a personality disorder are more likely to develop one themselves. Unfortunately, diagnosing NPD can be difficult due to its overlap with other mental health disorders such as Antisocial Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, making it essential for professionals in the field of mental health to use every resource available when they identify potential cases of NPD.
Although it is easy to use the term “narcissist” as an all-encompassing insult, it has much different meanings and implications in a professional setting versus casual usage. Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a serious mental illness that often warrants clinical intervention, where casually calling someone a narcissist does not change their behavior or provide any type of treatment. By better understanding the symptoms and causes of NPD, it is easier to recognize the signs of this disorder in those around us and get help for them before things reach a critical point. Not only can the diagnosis lead to better interventions, but it can also help explain many behaviors that were previously unaddressed or misattributed to external influences. Learning more about NPD encourages greater understanding and compassion for those who struggle with this disorder on a daily basis – something we could all benefit from in our lives.
Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place