Narcissism, a term derived from the Greek myth of Narcissus, refers to a personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for excessive attention, and a lack of empathy for others. While not everyone who exhibits narcissistic traits has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), these behaviors can be damaging to relationships and interactions. Here are five common things narcissists do:
1. They Crave Constant Admiration and Validation
Narcissists thrive on attention and praise. They often seek out situations where they can be the center of attention, whether in social settings, at work, or within their personal relationships. They may fish for compliments, exaggerate their achievements, or demand recognition for even the smallest accomplishments. This need for validation stems from a fragile self-esteem that relies heavily on external approval. Without it, they may feel insecure or insignificant.
2. They Lack Empathy
One of the most defining traits of a narcissist is their inability to genuinely empathize with others. They struggle to understand or care about the feelings, needs, or perspectives of those around them. This lack of empathy often leads to one-sided relationships, where the narcissist’s needs take precedence. They may dismiss others’ emotions, minimize their struggles, or even blame them for feeling hurt. This behavior can leave those close to them feeling unseen and unvalued.
3. They Manipulate and Exploit Others
Narcissists are often skilled manipulators. They may use charm, guilt-tripping, or gaslighting to control others and get what they want. Gaslighting, in particular, is a tactic where they distort reality to make others doubt their own perceptions or sanity. Narcissists may also exploit people for personal gain, whether it’s for money, status, or emotional support, without considering the impact on the other person. Their relationships are often transactional, centered around what they can gain rather than mutual respect.
4. They Have a Sense of Entitlement
Narcissists often believe they deserve special treatment and privileges, regardless of whether they’ve earned them. They may expect others to cater to their needs, bend rules for them, or prioritize their desires above all else. This sense of entitlement can manifest in various ways, such as cutting in line, demanding favors, or becoming angry when they don’t get their way. They may also feel entitled to success, admiration, or loyalty without putting in the effort to earn it.
5. They React Poorly to Criticism
Narcissists have an extremely fragile ego, which makes them highly sensitive to criticism—even when it’s constructive. Instead of reflecting on feedback, they may respond with defensiveness, anger, or outright denial. They might deflect blame onto others, play the victim, or launch a counterattack to undermine the person who criticized them. This inability to handle criticism often stems from their deep-seated fear of being exposed as flawed or inadequate.
Understanding these behaviors can help you identify narcissistic tendencies in others and protect yourself from their potentially harmful effects. While it’s important to approach the topic with empathy—recognizing that narcissism often stems from underlying insecurities or trauma—it’s equally crucial to set boundaries and prioritize your own well-being. If you find yourself dealing with a narcissist, seeking support from a therapist or counselor can provide valuable tools for navigating these challenging dynamics. Remember, you deserve relationships built on mutual respect, empathy, and genuine care.
