9 Signs Someone is a Narcissist

Interacting with someone

who has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

can be confusing, frustrating, and even hurtful.

While the narcissist will often overlook

or ignore the traits that make them unlikable,

recognizing these behaviors can help you understand

who you are dealing with.

Here are nine signs that may be a result of narcissism.

1. Instead of Listening, They’re Wrapped Up in Their Own Opinion

Ever felt looked down upon or ignored even though

that person was in no position to do so?

• Ignoring You: Their perception leads them to believe what you have to say isn’t important, so they blank it out rather than actively listening.
• The Platform: They treat all conversations as a platform to present their ideas only, which they believe are the only ideas worth listening to.

2. They Tend to Cheat in Relationships

Narcissists feel they are treasures that are too good for anyone.

Bring this attitude into a relationship,

and you have lightning waiting to strike.

• Ego Boost: Cheating is often a way for narcissists to build their ego.
• Power Rush: According to author Catarina Valentini, betraying someone and leaving them in grief gives a narcissist a rush of power. They often wreak havoc in partners’ lives because they struggle to form normal relationships.

3. They Constantly Need to Be Admired

You may have seen the swagger, conceit, and arrogance,

but even if they look like they possess tremendous confidence,

it is never enough.

• Entitlement: The delusion of always being entitled to admiration causes them to emotionally drain those around them.
• The High: To them, there is no greater rush than being put on a pedestal and worshiped by fans and followers.

4. They Do Not Take Any Criticism Well

Have you ever commented on something someone said,

only for them to lash out with unexpected hostility?

• Infallibility: Narcissists think they are superior to others and believe themselves to be infallible.
• The Reaction: When they perceive what you’ve said as criticism, they react poorly—often yelling, throwing a tantrum, or responding unreasonably.

5. They Exploit Others Without Guilt or Shame

Narcissism and empathy do not go hand in hand.

• Lack of Perspective: Narcissists are unwilling to see the world from the perspective of others.
• No Remorse: As a result, they can manipulate people to fulfill their own needs without any regard for the consequences their actions may have on others.

6. They Belittle Others

The narcissist thinks they are the best and brightest.

Seeing proof that dictates otherwise—like someone more talented

at a particular activity—is a rude shock.

• Asserting Superiority: Their response is to ensure that the person is put “below them.”
• Intimidation: They may try to be dismissive to show they don’t care, or resort to personal attacks and intimidation to assert dominance.

7. They See Themselves as More Attractive Than They Really Are

While everyone should feel attractive, there is a fine line

between a healthy self-image and being delusional.

• The Delusion: Narcissists believe they are exceptionally attractive regardless of any imperfections.
• Justification: They use this perceived superior attractiveness to justify to themselves why they are “too good” for everyone else.

8. They Gaslight Those Who Are Dear to Them

Have you ever felt like you can’t remember

anything correctly around a specific person,

or felt like you were losing your mind?

• The Tactic: Gaslighting is a tactic used to gain power and control. It is insidious because the manipulation is lengthy and gradual.
• The Result: It can reduce a healthy, confident person to a shaking, paranoid shell. The victim stops believing their own reality and adopts the reality of the abuser, giving the narcissist full control.

9. They Put Some People on Pedestals

This sign seems contradictory to the others,

but it is logical to the narcissist.

• Seeking Perfection: Narcissists believe they must have perfection in everything, including the people they associate with.
• Status by Association: They will often cozy up to someone of higher status (like a “brown-noser” at work), believing that the other person’s perfection will rub off on them.

Summary

Recognizing these signs is the first step in dealing

with narcissistic behavior.

Whether it is the constant need for admiration,

the inability to handle criticism,

or the manipulative use of gaslighting, these traits

can be damaging to those around them.

If you or someone you know is dealing with these behaviors,

understanding the root cause is essential for mental well-being.