Narcissistic personality is characterised by a persistent pattern of grandiosity, need for excessive admiration and lack of empathy for others.
It affects approximately 6% of the population. It occurs more often in males than in females and usually appears in adolescence or early adulthood.
The cause is unknown, but it is thought to be the result of a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors.
People with narcissistic personality disorder often have very high self-esteem, a strong need for admiration and recognition from others. Symptoms include: Feeling envious of others, having unrealistic expectations of success and fame, and having arrogant and boastful behaviour.
Diagnosis is made through psychiatric and psychological evaluation.
Treatment involves psychological therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy or psychodynamic therapy. The goal of treatment is to help the person develop a more realistic self-image and improve their ability to relate to others.
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