If we meet someone who always talks about themselves, we quickly label them as selfish or arrogant. However, these individuals may also be diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Furthermore, NPD behaviors may not fit into a single category. In this article, we will identify the many types of narcissism to learn how to address them and prevent unwanted confrontations. Here are four types of narcissism:
1. Communal Narcissism
This type of narcissist appears to be willing to help the community, but their true intentions are to make the world believe they are exceptional at serving others. They are often found in politics, business, and charitable organizations. People with communal narcissism are constantly under the impression that they need to fix something to gain acknowledgment. They feel the need to demonstrate their mission and calling to the world.
Obsessed with charities, they often create a commotion or disputes, disliking skeptics of wealth distribution. Due to their positive reputation, communal narcissists are challenging to identify. However, their behavior is often revealed when they seek recognition for their assistance, especially when cameras accompany them. Genuine acts of help do not require public acknowledgment, as true helpers are happy to assist without needing recognition.
2. Overt Narcissism
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Overt narcissism is characterized by straightforward, selfish, and arrogant attitudes. These individuals manipulate others to fulfill their desires and constantly seek validation for being the best. They believe they are the most popular, clever, and attractive people in their group.
They may also be seen as firm CEOs who neglect their staff’s well-being or as celebrities boasting about material possessions like designer clothes and fancy cars. Being in a relationship with an overt narcissist is often one-sided, as they exploit their partners due to their sense of superiority.
Overt narcissists dislike others who don’t share their beliefs and are envious of others’ achievements. To avoid overt narcissists, distance yourself from them and set clear boundaries to prevent becoming a victim of their manipulative behavior.
3. Covert Narcissism
Covert narcissism is the opposite of overt narcissism, being quieter and less obvious. These individuals are often timid introverts but share similar self-absorbed traits. They perceive themselves as victims and frequently blame the world for not recognizing them.
Like overt narcissists, covert narcissists crave validation but are highly sensitive to criticism. They may present as lacking self-confidence, yet they enjoy being applauded and uplifted. Procrastination and difficulty maintaining relationships are common among them.
If you encounter a covert narcissist, they may subject you to silent treatment and harbor distrustful attitudes. These individuals are covertly competitive, manipulative, and seek attention in exhausting ways. To protect yourself, consider going no-contact to preserve your mental well-being.
4. Malignant Narcissism
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According to Merriam-Webster, “malignant” means aggressive and malicious. In psychology, malignant narcissism is referred to as “engaged narcissism.” Most malignant narcissists are manipulative, jealous, and will create circumstances that benefit them, often engaging in sadism and hostile conduct.
Malignant narcissists are akin to antagonists in movies, engaging in unforgivable acts like manipulation and harm. Unfortunately, these individuals exist in real life. They are challenging to manage because they perceive the world in black and white and have no qualms about hurting others to achieve their goals.
This type of narcissism is the most severe and often requires professional psychiatric assistance. While their behavior resembles antisocial personality disorder, they also exhibit strong narcissistic tendencies.
Among the four types of narcissists, malignant narcissism is the most concerning. These individuals are not monsters but victims of poor parenting, bullying, and other negative influences. Narcissism is not an inborn condition but rather a result of environmental factors.
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