How to Spot a Narcissist

Welcome to this deep dive into understanding narcissism.

In this course, Dr. Jolie Avena (Licensed Psychologist) will illuminate the intricate facets of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and explain what it means to be a narcissist.

After that, Cynthia Eddings (Psychotherapist) will guide you through 19 signs and examples of someone with high narcissistic traits that you can use to determine whether or not you have a narcissist in your life.

Last, but not least, this guide comes with a narcissistic traits checklist and a link to a free online healing community for people experiencing narcissistic abuse.

What Is a Narcissist? By Dr. Jolie Avena

19 Signs of Someone with High Narcissistic Traits by Cynthia Eddings

01

Grandiosity

Grandiosity is an inflated sense of one’s own importance or abilities, accompanied by a tendency to exaggerate accomplishments and have unrealistic aspirations.

02

Grandiose Fantasies

Grandiose fantasies involve a person’s belief that they possess exceptional abilities or qualities beyond the norm.

These fantasies lead to an unrealistic sense of self-importance or control over others, such as imagining oneself as a celebrity, genius, or superhero.

03

Lack of Empathy

Lack of empathy refers to a difficulty or inability to recognize or understand the feelings and needs of others and to respond appropriately.

04

Need for Admiration

A need for admiration refers to a strong desire to be admired, recognized, and praised by others, often leading to attention-seeking behavior.

05

Sense of Entitlement

A sense of entitlement refers to a belief that one is entitled to special privileges, recognition, or treatment, often regardless of one’s actual accomplishments or contributions.

06

Lack of Accountability

Lack of accountability refers to a reluctance or refusal to take responsibility for one’s actions and a tendency to blame others or external circumstances for one’s own mistakes or failures.

07

Difficulty with Criticism

Difficulty with criticism refers to a sensitivity to negative feedback or criticism, which can lead to defensiveness, avoidance, or retaliation.

08

Need for Control

The need for control refers to a desire to have power or authority over others and to dictate or manipulate situations to one’s advantage.

09

Lack of Boundaries

Lack of boundaries refers to a tendency to disregard or violate the personal boundaries of others or to have weak boundaries oneself, leading to a lack of respect for others’ autonomy and privacy.

10

Intense Envy

Intense envy refers to a strong resentment or jealousy towards others who possess qualities or achievements that one desires for oneself.

11

Impulsivity

Impulsivity refers to a tendency to act impulsively or without considering the consequences, often leading to rash or reckless behavior.

12

Exploitive/Manipulative Behavior

Exploitive/manipulative behavior refers to a tendency to use others for one’s own gain or benefit, often by manipulating or deceiving them without regard for their well-being or interests.

13

Intense Mood Swings

Intense mood swings are rapid and extreme fluctuations in mood, often without a clear cause.

14

A Lack of Self-Awareness

A lack of self-awareness is an inability to recognize or acknowledge one’s own emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

15

Superficial Charm

Superficial charm is a manipulative and insincere display of charisma or attractiveness used to gain favor or influence.

16

Tendency to Project

Tendency to project refers to attributing one’s own negative traits or feelings onto others, often as a defense mechanism.

17

Preoccupation with Appearances

Preoccupation with appearances refers to a fixation on physical attractiveness, social status, or other external factors as a measure of worth.

18

Disregard for Rules/Social Norms

A disregard for rules/social norms refers to a willingness to break the rules or violate social standards in pursuit of personal gain or pleasure.

19

Difficulty Forming and Maintaining Relationships

Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships refers to struggles with establishing and sustaining healthy, stable, and meaningful connections with others.

Narcissistic Traits Checklist

Please click here to download this checklist or swipe through the images below.

Do you still have questions about narcissism and narcissistic abuse?

We have a FREE private online community overseen by therapists for people healing from narcissistic abuse. If you would like to join, please click here.