Narcissism and psychopathy can coexist, and it may be difficult to deal with. Protect yourself with clear boundaries, realistic expectations, and support.
Engaging with someone with narcissistic or psychopathic traits can be challenging. When they occur together, it can be especially harmful to your mental and emotional health.
While narcissism and psychopathy have distinct traits and characteristics, they also have similarities and may overlap in some cases.
You’re not alone, however. There are ways you can navigate the relationship while protecting your emotional well-being.
Signs of NPD and psychopathy
“Both personality disorders share a lack of empathy,” explained Boston-based psychotherapist Angela Ficken, “but psychopathy often includes more overtly harmful, reckless, or antisocial behaviors.”
Signs of NPD
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) involves thoughts of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration and external validation, and a lack of empathy and regard for others. Signs include:
- strong sense of entitlement
- lack of empathy for others’ feelings
- constantly seeking validation or admiration
- exaggerating achievements or talents
- believing they are superior to others
- taking advantage of others for personal gain
Signs of psychopathy
In contrast, psychopathy, often related to antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), involves a disregard for social norms. Signs include:
- persistent lying or deceit for personal gain
- manipulative behavior
- impulsivity and failure to plan ahead
- aggressive or reckless behavior
- lack of empathy or concern for others’ safety or feelings
- difficulty forming emotional attachments or maintaining relationships
Can traits of psychopathy and narcissism co-occur?
Yes, psychopathy and narcissism can overlap. When this happens, the person may exhibit characteristics of both personality disorders, said Ficken. These may include:
- grandiosity combined with manipulative or deceitful behavior
- entitlement with a disregard for the rights or feelings of others
- exploitation of others, either to feed a sense of superiority or for personal gain without remorse
- aggressive or hostile behavior when they feel their sense of self-worth is threatened
- charm and charisma are used manipulatively to gain control over others
- impulsivity and a sense of entitlement leading to reckless behavior that harms others
- lack of guilt or remorse when hurting others and blaming others for problems
Michael Anderson, counselor and clinical director at Healing Pines Recovery in Colorado, warns that a lack of empathy exhibited in narcissistic traits can be especially dangerous when mixed with an absence of remorse seen in those who have psychopathic traits.
Anderson provided an example of how the co-occurrence of these traits may present themselves.
“They can inflict pain without feeling sorry and without even realizing what the consequences of their actions may be,” he said.
Those with a grandiose sense of self carry an inflated sense of self-worth, convinced they are above all others, he added.
“Such towering pride brings about extreme violations of the feelings and rights of others, making people live in miserable conditions.”
What causes narcissistic and psychopathic traits?
Research suggests several factors may contribute to the development of narcissistic and psychopathic traits, such as:
Genetics
Heredity is suggested to play a significant role in the development of personality traits and disorders. Characteristics such as impulsivity and aggression can be passed down through families.
Brain structure
Anderson said that some kinds of personality disorders are associated with dysfunction of certain brain zones or with disorganization of the personality structure.
“There may be some structural changes in those brain areas that are involved in controlling and modulating emotions,” he explained.
Early childhood experiences
Ficken noted that being excessively praised or criticized as a child can contribute to the development of narcissistic traits like grandiosity or low self-esteem masked by superiority.
With psychopathy, things like abuse, trauma, or a lack of attachment or care during early childhood may contribute to the development of antisocial traits.
Protecting yourself from someone with NPD or ASPD
Engaging with someone who has narcissistic and psychopathic tendencies can take a mental and emotional toll. Our experts offer several tips that can help you navigate the challenges and protect your emotional well-being.
- Set clear boundaries: People with narcissistic or psychopathic tendencies often push limits, so it’s essential to be firm about your boundaries. Communicate them clearly and consistently, and be prepared to enforce them.
- Avoid emotional engagement: Individuals with these traits can manipulate emotions, so it’s helpful to remain calm and avoid reacting emotionally to their provocations. Keep interactions focused on facts, and try to avoid getting drawn into arguments or drama.
- Manage your expectations: Remember that someone with these traits is unlikely to genuinely care about your feelings. Adjust your expectations, and avoid seeking emotional validation from them.
- Limit your exposure: If possible, minimize the time you spend with the person, especially if the relationship is toxic or harmful. There are times when it’s OK to step back for the sake of your mental health and finding balance in life.
Next steps
If engaging with someone with narcissistic or psychopathic tendencies is affecting your emotional health, don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.
Many therapists are trained in working with personality disorders. To find one who specializes in narcissistic personality disorder and psychopathy, the following resources are a good place to start
- Healthline FindCare
- American Psychiatric Association
- American Psychological Association
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
- National Institute of Mental Health
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
What is a Narcissistic Psychopath
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