23 Feb Dividing Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) into Two Main Subtypes: Grandiose and Vulnerable Narcissism
Narcissism or Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a personality disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). NPD is characterized by a lack of empathy for others, a strong need for admiration, and a pervasive pattern of grandiosity. In 1991, a social researcher published a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology that further defined this personality disorder into two main subtypes: grandiose narcissism and vulnerable narcissism.
Grandiose narcissism is characterized by high self–esteem, dominance in interpersonal relationships, and a tendency to overestimate one’s capabilities. Individuals with this disorder will carry themselves with a sense of superiority and personal entitlement and frequently respond with aggression and hostility when challenged. It is common for them to exploit others for personal gain within personal relationships or business dealings.
Conversely, vulnerable narcissists are defensive, avoidant, and hypersensitive in interpersonal relations. With vulnerable narcissism, the individual will be more introverted, sensitive to criticism, and possess a fragile sense of self-esteem. Vulnerable narcissists hide their true nature behind façades of self-doubt and self-consciousness and may appear more avoidant. With this form of narcissism, individuals may avoid situations where they fear looking worse than others or risk seeming incompetent. They tend to blame others for their problems and may be more prone to anxiety and depression.
Whether grandiose or vulnerable, narcissism is marked by an egocentric tendency. Grandiose narcissism possesses an exaggerated sense of self-importance and an excessive need for admiration, while vulnerable narcissists react with a deep-seated fear of rejection and an ongoing need for validation and reassurance. Both forms of narcissism are rooted in self-absorption.