Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive or unstable self-love, a grandiose sense of self-importance, and a need for admiration.
Although not all people with NPD are harmful, the disorder can lead to problems in both personal and professional life.
Here are some questions about NPD you may not have known.
12 Questions About Narcissistic Personality Disorder
What is the behavior of a narcissist?
Narcissists have an inflated sense of their worth and view themselves as superior to others.
They invariably require constant validation from those around them, which can be achieved through either positive or negative reinforcement.
Negative reinforcement might involve basically anything that helps the narcissist feel good about themselves-providing they are the ones in control.
Narcissists typically have a very shallow emotional life and often discard people or relationships once they no longer provide them with what they need or want.
They are arrogant, possessive, critical, and insensitive towards other people’s feelings.
[Read More: How to identify a sociopath]
What are the nine traits of a narcissist?
Nine traits of a narcissist include excessive self-love, need for admiration, exploitativeness and grandiosity, entitlement, and obsessive preoccupation with their appearance or sense of superiority.
They often have contemptuous attitudes towards others and lack empathy.
Narcissists are usually very charming initially, but can quickly turn aggressive if they feel threatened or invalidated.
They cannot sustain healthy relationships because of their constant need for independence and attention.
How can you tell if someone is a narcissistic person?
Narcissism is a personality disorder that involves a pattern of grandiose thoughts, intense self-love, and a need for admiration.
Someone who suffers from Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) will often believe that they are superior to others and have unrealistic expectations of themselves.
They may also be incredibly insecure and take pleasure in making others feel bad.
If you think someone you know might suffer from NPD, it’s important to talk to them about it in an understanding and supportive manner.
This can help both of you address any issues head-on so that the person with NDPD can recover and improve their life quality.
[Read More: 8 Signs You May Have a Narcissistic Parent]
How do narcissists argue?
Narcissists argue in a manipulative and conditional way, often using ad hominem attacks or giving people silent treatment.
They may also be quick to resort to screaming or physical altercations.
Interestingly, research has shown that narcissists are actually better thinkers than average regarding logic and problem-solving.
This is likely because of their ability to convincingly conceal their emotions and mask ego-deflating feedback with rational arguments.
What does a narcissist talk like?
Narcissists talk about themselves incessantly, have a grandiose sense of self-importance, and do not regard other people as equals.
They are often preoccupied with their own needs and desires and may be unaware or uninterested in the feelings of others.
Narcissists use aggressive language that intimidates or threatens those around them.
In addition, they will take any opportunity to put down or undermine others to feel superior.
As a result, if you know someone who exhibits these behaviors, it’s important not to confront them head-on; instead, try listening carefully and building bridges towards understanding each other better.
What words do narcissists use?
Narcissists use words to manipulate and control others.
They may tell you you’re the best thing ever or that they love you more than anything.
They may threaten or promise rewards to get what they want from you.
Remember: every word and narcissist says is a lie.
[Read More: All you need to know about Narcissistic Personality Disorder]
How does a narcissist react when they can't control you?
A narcissist reacts in different ways when they can’t control you.
Some may become aggressive or violent, while others try to manipulate and control your behavior and thoughts.
They might also resort to threats or insults to get you to do what they want.
In the end, a narcissist won’t be satisfied until they have total control over you physically and emotionally.
What happens when you stop speaking to a narcissist?
It may be difficult to adjust when you stop speaking to a narcissist.
They will probably display one or more of the following symptoms: feeling betrayed and isolated, extreme anger and rage, changes in mood (from happy to angry quickly), intense jealousy and envy, reduced socialization/engagement with others outside of their Narcissistic relationship (possibly leading to loneliness), increased anxiousness/nervousness.
If you are unable or unwilling to revisit this situation again soon because of these symptoms, consider seeking professional counseling or therapy that can help guide you through this challenging time.
It is also important to remember that not all narcissistic individuals are violent; many people who exhibit traits categorized as narcissistic actually do not resort to violence towards their partners.
What happens when you end a relationship with a narcissist?
Ending a relationship with a narcissist can be difficult, but it is essential for your mental and emotional health.
When you are in an abusive or toxic relationship, it is hard to see that things won’t change.
Unfortunately, this often leads people to believe that narcissists will change their behavior if they just stay together.
However, this isn’t the case; narcissistic abuse continues after the couple separates.
One of the earliest signs that ending a relationship is necessary maybe when you experience anxiety or panic attacks.
This is because breaking up with someone who has been controlling and abusive triggers intense feelings of sadness and loneliness, leading to psychological distress.
Staying in an unhealthy situation increases your risk of being victimized again by the narcissist.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to end your Relationship Today!
What should you not tell a narcissist?
You should not tell a narcissist many things, and some of the most common include your addresses, phone number, social security numbers, or any other personal information.
Not only will this potentially put you at risk, but it could also jeopardize your relationship with this person.
Never lie to or deceive a narcissist; they will eventually find out and punish you for it.
If you felt you need to disclose confidential information to protect yourself or someone else from danger, always speak to an experienced therapist first so that they can help guide you through the delicate process.
Can a narcissist say sorry?
Unfortunately, a narcissist may not apologize sincerely for their behavior.
They view themselves as superior and have a distorted sense of reality, making them believe they are always right.
It would be seen as an act of weakness or defeat for them to admit they were wrong and seek restitution or recompense from the person they hurt.
This is because humiliation will continue to fuel their entitlement and self-podsolization Syndrome (SOS).
How does a narcissist show love?
A narcissist often shows love in indirect or nonverbal ways.
This might involve lavish gifts, constant attention, and praise, or making the person feel like they are the only thing that matters in the world.
The narcissist may also be critical and belittling toward others, which can lead to feeling devalued and empty.
Sometimes, a loved one with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) may develop Stockholm Syndrome, an empathy-deficit disorder characterized by sympathy for someone evil or harmful to them.
They may go along with any demands made by their abuser out of fear for their safety and hope that things will eventually change.
Sadly, this rarely happens, and victims end up stuck when they have no control over their life or feelings anymore.