What are the symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder

The symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder mainly manifest as excessive self importance, lack of empathy, and the need for excessive worship. There are mainly manifestations such as excessive self importance, fantasy of unlimited success, sense of privilege, exploitation of interpersonal relationships, lack of empathy, jealousy towards others, and arrogant behavior.

1. Excessive self importance

Patients often exaggerate their own achievements and talents, firmly believing that they are different from others, and even if they lack actual achievements, they still insist that they should receive special treatment. May repeatedly mention past successes or exaggerate the importance of work, and even fabricate experiences to maintain a sense of superiority. This behavior often leads to alienation from others, but patients often attribute it to jealousy from others.

2. Fantasy of Infinite Success

Continuously immerse oneself in fantasies about power, success, beauty, or ideal love. This type of fantasy often deviates from reality, such as firmly believing that one is destined to become a world leader or gain unprecedented wealth, and showing strong resistance to questioning. Some patients may maintain their fantasies by frequently changing unrealistic life goals.

3. Sense of privilege

Unreasonably expecting special treatment, such as cutting in line, canceling appointments without explanation, etc. In the workplace, one may request to skip the normal promotion process or believe that the rules do not apply to oneself. When expectations are not met, there will be obvious anger, such as complaining that service personnel have not given VIP treatment.

4. Interpersonal relationship exploitation

sees others as tools to satisfy one's own needs, lacking a sense of reciprocity. Typical manifestations include seeking emotional support unilaterally, cutting off contact after utilizing social resources, and demanding unconditional contributions from partners in love. This type of behavior is often accompanied by emotional manipulation, such as maintaining control by belittling others.

5. Lack of empathy

Difficulty in identifying or caring for the needs and feelings of others, showing indifference when others are sick or experiencing setbacks. Perhaps interrupting others to confide and instead talking about oneself, or complaining when a partner is crying can affect one's mood. A small number of patients may express concern through performance, but the purpose is often to gain social recognition. Patients with narcissistic personality disorder (SEP) usually do not seek medical attention proactively, and often seek treatment only after experiencing interpersonal crises or comorbidities such as depression and anxiety. Family members should avoid direct blame and can guide cognition through specific behavioral descriptions, such as pointing out how privileged behavior affects family members. Set clear boundaries in daily interactions, refuse unreasonable requests clearly but maintain a neutral attitude. Encourage participation in group activities to cultivate empathy skills, but be aware that patients may transform such activities into a platform for self-expression. If the symptoms seriously affect daily life, it is recommended to accompany you to the psychiatric department for systematic psychological assessment and treatment.