This is the person he believes to be the most important among them. According to him, he ought to be treated special. Despite his previous mistakes, he never admits that he made any. It is essential that he receives constant attention and admiration. Whenever he is criticized, he becomes hypersensitive. Nobody else seems to matter to him because he is so preoccupied with himself.

Are you familiar with such a person?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), in part, as having five or more of the following characteristics:

• Exaggerating their own importance
• Having an obsession with success and power
• Being overly devoted to themselves lack of empathy for others Envious of others 
• Exaggerating their own importance
• Exploiting others
• Not caring about others
• Feeling that others are envious of you
• Arrogance or haughtiness

Narcissist believes in the superiority of themselves. The feelings of others are not important to them. It is their opinion that matters most, and they believe they should be treated differently.

Often, NPD patients are relentless. There is a possibility that they will take advantage of others. Falsely admitting fault is not something they do. All their plans and ideas are automatically accepted by others. In order to appear superior, they may belittle others.

Despite appearing self-confident, people with NPD fear inadequacy, insecurity, and vulnerability. Because they fall short of perfection, they may feel depressed and moody.

What are the causes of NPD?

It is unknown what causes NPD. The development of this disorder is thought to be linked to early life experiences, such as neglect and over-pampering (i.e., early life experiences). In contrast, a child raised by a distant, hypercritical, and unempathetic mother might internalize grandiosity as a means of defending against the alleged lack of love in the home. By avoiding vulnerability, they can no longer tune in to the needs of others.

What is the treatment for NPD?

NPD is mainly treated by talking therapy (psychotherapy) and medications. However, some changes can be made only if the narcissist sees a problem and is motivated to change. Nonetheless, people with NPD shy away from self-examination. Defense mechanisms prevent them from recognizing vulnerabilities. Treatment is typically not sought until they have hit rock bottom, like losing their spouse or losing their job.

Does your loved one have narcissistic tendencies?

NPD can pose challenges to those who live with them. Their loved one has been described as erratic and easily furious by family members. It might seem as if you’re always on eggshells.

Narcissists will never see you as enough, so stop putting yourself through so much stress to try to be enough. In order to avoid a narcissistic relationship, it’s important to focus on yourself, set healthy boundaries, and stop expecting your love to change them. A narcissist can become more empathic while relating to others in a healthier way only with the help of professionals.