Here Are 6+ Types of Narcissists — and How to Recognize Them IRL
Plus, the difference between a narcissist and someone with narcissistic personality disorder.
People throw out words like “narcissist” often, especially when they’re feeling angry. You may have heard someone call their ex, family member, or friend a narcissist during a rant.
The general understanding of a narcissist is someone who cares only about themselves and their needs. Someone who thinks they’re better than others.
But how can narcissists be different, and what’s the difference between having narcissistic traits and having narcissistic personality disorder? Further, how can you spot the signs in real life?
‘Narcissist’ Versus ‘Narcissistic Personality Disorder’
First, it’s important to point out that someone can have narcissistic traits and not have a full-blown narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), a mental illness. The following 6+ types are ways people can express and feel their narcissism, regardless of a diagnosis.
According to the DSM-5, the manual used to diagnose people with mental illnesses, someone with NPD must exhibit five of the following symptoms:
