MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Narcissistic personality disorder

Skip navigation


Medical Encyclopedia
Other encyclopedia topics:	A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9

Narcissistic personality disorder

Contents of this page:
Definition Causes, incidence, and risk factors Symptoms Signs and tests	Treatment Expectations (prognosis) Complications

Definition

Narcissistic personality disorder is a condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and an extreme preoccupation with one's self.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause of this disorder is unknown. Personality disorders are long-lasting patterns of behavior that cause problems with relationships and work. Narcissistic personality disorder usually begins by early adulthood and is marked by disregard for the feelings of others, grandiosity, obsessive self-interest, and the pursuit of primarily selfish goals.

Symptoms

A person with narcissistic personality disorder:

Reacts to criticism with feelings or rage, shame, or humiliation
Takes advantage of others to achieve own goals
Feelings of self-importance
Exaggerates achievements and talents
Preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, beauty, intelligence, or ideal love
Unreasonable expectations of favorable treatment
Requires constant attention and admiration
Lacks empathy

Signs and tests

Personality disorders are diagnosed based on a psychological evaluation and the history and severity of the symptoms.

Treatment

Psychotherapy may help the affected person relate to others in a more positive and compassionate manner.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome varies with the severity of the disorder.

Complications

Relationship and family problems
Alcohol or other drug dependence

Update Date: 1/25/2003

Updated by: David Taylor, M.D., Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.