Narcissistic personality disorder

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), commonly referred to as megalomania, is a personality disorder that is characterized by extreme feelings of self-importance, a high need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Narcissistic personality disorder can be considered to be a pathological form of narcissism. It is estimated that 0.7-1% of the general population is afflicted with narcissistic personality disorder. Most people with narcissistic personality disorder (50-75%, according to the DSM) are men.

Relation to Psychopathy

Psychopathy, as it is traditionally defined, is a three-faceted personality disorder affecting interpersonal, emotional, and behavioral areas of functioning. Psychopaths exhibit an arrogant and deceitful interpersonal style and a deficient affective experience, whose clinical signs closely resemble those of narcissistic personality disorder. The impulsive and irresponsible behavioral style is not diagnostic of narcissistic personality disorder, however.

Related Topics:
Psychopathy - Three-faceted personality disorder

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The DSM-IV-TR's antisocial personality disorder emphasizes reckless and exploitive criminal conduct whereas narcissistic personality disorder emphasizes emotional indifference and self-centeredness (egoism). Psychopathy is essentially a combination of the two.

Related Topics:
Antisocial personality disorder - Egoism

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