Big-headedness. Narcissists think they’re better than others. They may believe they are the brightest, most talented, or most attractive person present. Their weak egos need regular validation, so they overstate their talents and successes. Narcissists may brag about their successes, display expensive goods, or dominate conversations to prove their superiority.

Since their self-worth comes from external validation rather than internal self-worth, they are insecure and have poor self-esteem. The unpredictable behavior of anxiousness and insecurity makes it hard to form healthy relationships with narcissists.

Wanting praise and attention. Narcissists crave attention and praise. They need affirmation, comfort, and recognition and would do anything to stay in the spotlight. Narcissists seek recognition by bragging and exaggerating their accomplishments. They may also seek out relationships or settings where they feel like the most important person in the room and get envious or irritated if they feel neglected.

This persistent demand for attention and approval can weary others and break up relationships and friendships. Narcissists frequently lack empathy, so they may not know or appreciate how their behavior affects others, making it hard to quit the pattern of seeking attention.

Absence of empathy. Lack of empathy is a hallmark of NPD. Narcissists don’t comprehend or care about others’ feelings. They may consider others’ feelings as insignificant. Narcissists may be too focused on themselves to care about others’ emotions.

They may think their needs and wants are most important and that others should be delighted merely to be with them. Lack of empathy can damage relationships by disconnecting from others’ experiences and ignoring their emotional pain. Without empathy or understanding, narcissists struggle to create lasting relationships.

Jealousy. Narcissists typically envy others who are more successful, attractive, or accomplished than themselves. Narcissists may feel this way when another’ achievement threatens their self-worth. In response, they may try to disparage their competitors to preserve their advantage.

Narcissists can also become possessive of “their” friends and love partners, becoming angry or violent when they think others want their attention. Narcissists’ possessiveness, envy, and jealousy can make it impossible for them to develop good relationships. They find it hard to appreciate others’ successes because they may regard it as a threat to their own worth.

Feeling entitled
A sense of entitlement is a hallmark of NPD. Narcissists may believe they deserve special treatment and privileges. They may expect people to satisfy their wants without concern for others. Narcissists may become irritated, furious, or confrontational when their demands are not satisfied, feeling unfairly treated.

This entitlement might make it hard for narcissists to accept that others’ needs and wants are just as genuine. Some people feel entitled occasionally, but those with NPD feel entitled all the time, which can lead to resentment and damage healthy relationships.

Pride and arrogance. Narcissists often act superior and disregard others. They may think they’re the only important person in a room and become annoyed when others don’t. Narcissists may be contemptuous of individuals they consider “below” them due to social standing, education, or other considerations.

Narcissistic conduct maintains social structures and makes marginalized and struggling people feel neglected, undervalued, and unsupported. Narcissistic behavior can poison the workplace by creating a culture of fear and competitiveness that discourages collaboration.

Absence of accountability. Narcissists often blame others and refuse to accept responsibility for their behavior. They may get defensive or angry if they feel reprimanded or called out for their behavior, threatening their self-worth. Narcissists may blame others to shield their fragile egos.

Narcissists’ inability to take responsibility can damage their mental health and relationships. Without the ability to reflect on and learn from their mistakes, narcissists may continue to damage others. Compassionate, non-judgmental mental health care from skilled specialists can assist NPD patients learn responsibility and accountability.