What is a Narcissistic Personality Test?
Narcissistic personality disorder is one of ten different types of personality disorders that is recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). It is a chronic mental health condition that is characterized by a long-term pattern of exaggerated feelings of self-importance.
The Mayo Clinic explains that individuals with narcissistic personality disorder “have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others.” Most often beneath the grandiose façade, individuals diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder are hiding and avoiding profound feelings of insecurity. The symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder will affect all areas of a person’s life, and if left untreated can negatively impact the quality of one’s life.
NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY TEST
There are a variety of online self-screening resources and tests that can help an individual identify if they may be struggling with narcissistic personality disorder (e.g., Narcissistic Personality Inventory, Narcissistic Personality Quiz, 3 Minute Narcissistic Personality Disorder Test, etc.). While completing these tests does not provide a professional diagnosis, they can illuminate a need for further evaluation. In order to obtain the most effective treatment, it is essential to be properly evaluated and accurately diagnosed by a mental health provider. The clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder is typically concluded after a thorough psychiatric evaluation and physical exam.
CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
The narcissistic personality disorder diagnostic criteria provided in the DSM-5 include the presence of a minimum of five of the following nine traits that must be exhibited in a variety of contexts:
Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)
Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited power, success, beauty, brilliance or ideal love
Believes that he or she is special and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people
Requires excessive admiration
Has a sense of entitlement
Is interpersonally exploitative (e.g., takes advantage of others for personal gain)
Lacks empathy: is unwilling to identify with the needs and feelings of others
Is envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her
Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes
While there is no cure for narcissistic personality disorder, with proper treatment individuals can learn how to effectively manage their symptoms.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.