Beyond vanity: understanding narcissistic personality disorder

"I DATED a narcissist." "My mom is a narcissist." "You're being so narcissistic." We've all heard or maybe even said these words before.

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

RESEARCH shows that both too much praise and too much rejection in childhood can lead to narcissistic traits as a way to cope. | Freepik

(Freepik)

Lately, the word “narcissist” gets thrown around a lot, especially in therapy circles. With social media trends and talk about toxic relationships, the term has started to lose its real meaning.

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is much more than taking lots of selfies or wanting attention. It’s a serious mental health condition that shapes how someone sees themselves and connects with others, often causing real pain.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), NPD is defined by a persistent pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration and lack of empathy. But beneath that confidence often lies a fragile sense of self and an intense fear of inadequacy.

So, how do you tell the difference between everyday narcissism and something more serious?

People with NPD often have an inflated sense of self-importance, believing they’re special or superior. They crave admiration and often expect special treatment, whether it’s in relationships, friendships, or at work.

Some common symptoms include:

Constant need for attention and praise.

Exaggerated sense of achievements or talents.

Exploiting others for personal gain.