Signs that someone is a narcissist

Many personality disorders have traits that can be very off-putting, especially Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Dealing with someone with NPD can be confusing, frustrating, and sometimes hurtful. Often, they ignore or overlook these unlikable traits in themselves. Here are nine common signs that may indicate narcissism.

They prefer to talk about their opinions instead of listening.

If you’ve ever felt ignored or looked down upon, even when it didn’t seem justified, that might be a sign. Narcissists believe their thoughts are more important, so they tune out what others say. Instead of paying attention and participating in conversations, they see each talk as a chance to show off their ideas. They think their opinions are the only ones that matter.

They cheat in relationships.

Narcissists see their partner as a prize they don’t want anyone else to have. Bringing this view into a relationship often leads to cheating. Cheating helps them boost their ego. According to expert Katarina Valentini from Psychology Today, narcissists usually struggle to form normal relationships. Their betrayal leaves partners hurt, and giving into their desire for power.

They constantly crave admiration.

If you’ve met a narcissist, you’ve likely seen their huge confidence or swagger. They act arrogant and full of themselves. But beneath that, they need endless praise. They believe they are entitled to admiration. People around them often feel drained because they are always trying to be watched and praised. To a narcissist, being admired and worshipped is the ultimate thrill. They cannot handle criticism well.

They react badly to criticism.

If you ever told someone they were wrong, and they snapped at you, that’s a sign. Narcissists view themselves as better than others and see themselves as perfect. When they hear something they don’t like, they often get angry, yell, or throw tantrums. They see criticism as a threat to their image.

They exploit others without guilt.

Narcissists don’t care about how others feel. They lack empathy and see the world from only their point of view. This makes it easy for them to manipulate people. They take what they want to satisfy themselves, even if it hurts others. Guilt or remorse doesn’t stop them.

They put others down.

A narcissist usually believes they are better than everyone else. When they see someone more talented, they feel threatened and try to dismiss that person. They act dismissive or rude to make themselves look superior. Sometimes, if that doesn’t work, they attack the other person personally. They belittle and intimidate to stay on top.

They think they are more attractive than they are.

Most people see themselves as attractive to some degree. But narcissists often believe they are exceptionally handsome or beautiful. They ignore their flaws and act like they are a perfect ten. They use this belief to justify feeling they are too good for others.

They manipulate those close to them with gaslighting.

Have you ever felt confused or unable to trust your memory around a certain person? When you're with them, do you get the sense that you've lost your mind? That’s gaslighting. Narcissists often use this strategy to control and influence others. It’s a dangerous form of manipulation because it happens slowly and subtly. Over time, the victim may not realize what’s happening, similar to how you grow taller gradually. The result is often devastating, leaving the victim feeling insecure and paranoid. Even confident people can become scared and unsure of themselves. They start doubting what they know is real and may accept the abuser’s version of truth. This gives the narcissist complete power over them.

They put some people on pedestals.

This may seem different from the previous signs but is equally true. Narcissists want everything around them to be perfect, including people. They often seek out someone with a higher status or success. They believe that being close to someone successful will make them look better. For example, a student who always impresses the teacher or a worker who gets promotions without much effort. Do you or anyone you know show these signs?