What are the traits of a narcissistic sociopath?
Characteristics and behaviors of a sociopath include superficial charm, extreme Narcissism, secretiveness, pathological lying, and lack of guilt or shame, shallow emotions, impulsiveness, unreliability, irresponsibility, being manipulative, paranoid, infidelity and many others.
While there is no official diagnosis of "narcissistic sociopath," the
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) recognizes two disorders that may be present to form this constellation of traits: narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and antisocial personality disorder (APD).
People who have aspects of both of these personality disorders could be considered narcissistic sociopaths.
DSM-5 Criteria for Narcissistic Personality DisorderNarcissistic personality disorder is "a pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts," according to the DSM-5.
Five or more of these DSM-5 criteria need to be present for an official diagnosis.
- Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (exaggerates achievements and abilities)
- Preoccupied with dreams of unlimited power, success, physical attractiveness, and love
- Holds the belief that they are of special or high status and can only be understood by similar people or should only associate with those people (or institutions)
- Has a need for excessive admiration
- Possesses a sense of entitlement and expects favorable treatment or compliance
- Exploits other people to achieve personal goals
- Lacks empathy regarding the needs and feelings of other people
- Is envious of other people or thinks other people envy them
- Has arrogant behaviors and attitudes
People with this disorder may monopolize conversations and look down on people whom they feel are inferior to them. They will take advantage of others to get what they want, no matter who gets hurt along the way.
Individuals with NPD live with many negative outcomes of their personality disorder. They may have trouble handling criticism, stress, and change, and easily become impatient or angry if they don't think they are being treated correctly. They have trouble regulating their behavior and emotions, feel easily slighted, and may have relationship problems.
DSM-5 Criteria for Antisocial Personality DisorderPeople with NPD can become depressed if they fall short of what they feel is ideal. They may secretly feel insecure, vulnerable, and humiliated and have fragile self-esteem.
Antisocial personality disorder is "a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others," according to the DSM-5. An individual must show at least three of the following:
- Repeated failure to follow social norms resulting in grounds for arrest
- Engaging in deceitfulness (lying, using aliases, not paying off debts)
- Impulsivity and not planning ahead; moving around constantly
- Irritability and aggressiveness (resulting in physical fights/assaults)
- Reckless disregard or concern for the safety of other people
- Chronic irresponsibility reflected by a continued failure to maintain a job, finish school, or stay on top of financial commitments
- Lack of remorse about hurting others (indifferent or rationalizes)
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Older Guy Dec 25, 2020
Go to original post on Dec 25, 2020 11:53am