Description of narcissistic traits

Definition of narcissistic personality disorder according to American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5):

 Narcissistic personality disorder is defined as comprising a pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behaviour), a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by the presence of at least 5 of the following 9 criteria: 

1. A grandiose sense of self-importance 

2. A preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love 

3. A belief that he or she is special and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people or institutions 

4. A need for excessive admiration 

5. A sense of entitlement 

6. Interpersonally exploitive behaviour 

7. A lack of empathy 

8. Envy of others or a belief that others are envious of him or her 

9. A demonstration of arrogant and haughty behaviours or attitudes

(Source: American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. 5th ed. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2013.)

Malignant narcissism: