Narcissistic personality disorder symptoms test

3 Minute Narcissistic Personality Disorder Test

Personality DisordersNarcissistic Personality Disorder

Do You Have Narcissistic Personality Disorder? Use this quiz to determine whether you or someone you know may be a narcissist exhibiting symptoms of mild narcissism or a more severe case of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).

Jan 21, 2022

Katie Hurley, LCSW

Medical ReviewerRandy Bressler, PsyD

Who Is This Narcissistic Personality Disorder Quiz For?

Below is a list of questions designed for people who may be experiencing narcissistic thoughts they believe to be uncontrollable. The questions relate to life experiences common among people who have been diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).

Please read each question carefully, and indicate how often you have experienced the same or similar challenges in the past few months.

How Accurate Is It?

This quiz is NOT a diagnostic tool. Mental health disorders can only be diagnosed by licensed health care professionals.

Psycom believes assessments can be a valuable first step toward getting treatment. All too often people stop short of seeking help out of fear their concerns aren't legitimate or severe enough to warrant professional intervention.

How Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treated?

NPD may be treatable with talk therapy.

Learn More About Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Cleveland Clinic offers a guide to the disorder, including prevention, outlook and advice for family members.
Mayo Clinic takes a look at the risk factors, complications and when to see a doctor.

Your privacy is important to us. All results are completely anonymous.

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If you think you or someone you care about may be suffering from Narcissistic Personality Disorder or any other mental health condition, PsyCom. net strongly recommends that you seek help from a mental health professional in order to receive a proper diagnosis and support. For those in crisis, we have compiled a list of resources (some even offer free or low-cost support) where you may be able to find additional help.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder FAQs

What is narcissistic personality disorder?

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a type of personality disorder in which a person has an inflated sense of self-importance. Other hallmark characteristics of the disorder include an excessive need for admiration, an inability to accept criticism, a tendency to exaggerate achievements, and an inclination for taking advantage of others.

What causes narcissistic personality disorder?

The exact cause of narcissistic personality disorder is unknown, though some theories point to an unhealthy early parent-child relationship as an important factor. Biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors all likely play a role, but further research to confirm what causes narcissistic personality disorder.

How is narcissistic personality disorder diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder, a person must meet at least 5 of the following 9 criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5): o a grandiose sense of self-importance; a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love; o a belief that he or she is special and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people or institutions; o a need for excessive admiration; o a sense of entitlement; o taking advantage of others; o a lack of empathy; o envy of others or a belief that others are envious of him or her;
o demonstration of arrogant and haughty behaviors or attitudes.

Only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose NPD.

How is narcissistic personality disorder treated?

Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) typically involves a combination of both psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication management. While there is no cure for NPD, therapy can help narcissists to better relate to and treat others, as well as increase their ability to understand and regulate their feelings. Therapy may be used in the short term or provided on an ongoing basis.

Which medications are used in the treatment of narcissistic personality disorder?

There are currently no medications used specifically to treat narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), though individuals with NPD may be prescribed other medications if they demonstrate symptoms of depression, anxiety, or another mental health disorder. Medications that may be considered include antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers.

How common is narcissistic personality disorder?

While many people may exhibit varying degrees of narcissistic traits, narcissistic personality disorder is in fact very uncommon. It is estimated that only around 0.5% of the general U.S. population have the disorder. NPD is more common among males, who make up around 75% of those diagnosed.

At what age does narcissistic personality disorder develop?

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) typically presents by young adulthood (late teens to middle 20s). Narcissistic traits may be exhibited in adolescence, but may not ultimately develop into NPD. Individuals with NPD are often vain with regard to their physical appearance, and so NPD can worsen with age as a consequence of declining attractiveness or physical ailments. Although other, psychologically healthy people may adjust well to these changes, older adults with NPD may feel threatened by them.

Do narcissists feel remorse?

Narcissistic individuals tend to demonstrate a lack of remorse and empathy, as well as an inability to accept criticism. They also typically view themselves as all powerful and knowing, lending to a refusal to admit wrongdoing or feel guilt. Narcissists may put on a show of remorse when it is to their advantage to do so. For example, to get ahead in the workplace or manipulate others.

Balsis, S., Eaton, N. R., Cooper, L. D., & Oltmanns, T. F. (2011). The Presentation of Narcissistic Personality Disorder in an Octogenarian: Converging Evidence from Multiple Sources. Clinical gerontologist, 34(1), 71–87. Accessed April 6, 2021. Mayo Clinic. Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Accessed April 6, 2021. Cleveland Clinic. Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Accessed April 6, 2021.

Notes: This article was originally published July 9, 2021 and most recently updated January 21, 2022.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Test: NPD Symptoms, Signs

What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is characterized by persistent patterns of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).¹

Individuals with NPD have an inflated sense of self-importance, and may become upset or bewildered when they don’t receive the praise and attention they feel they deserve. As such, people with NPD often have fragile, highly variable self-esteem, and tend to be sensitive to criticism. Researchers propose that variable self-esteem, with attempts at regulation via approval-seeking behaviors and grandiosity, is central to NPD.² People with NPD are also often envious of others, and believe that others are envious of them.

Individuals with NPD have difficulty recognizing and identifying others’ feelings and needs. Fueled by a drive for admiration and special treatment, people with NPD inadvertently or consciously exploit others. Other people may describe those with NPD as snobbish, condescending, and emotionally cold. Ultimately, the symptoms of NPD result in significant interpersonal conflict, impaired functioning, and psychosocial distress.

NPD is a complex disorder, and it often co-occurs with mood, anxiety, substance-use, and other personality disorders, most notably borderline personality disorder (BPD).³ About 6% of the general population has NPD, with higher rates seen in men (7. 7%) than in women (4.8%).³

NPD falls under Cluster B personality disorders, which are marked by dramatic, overly emotional, and/or erratic thoughts and behavior.¹

If you suspect that you have symptoms of NPD, answer the questions below and share the results with a licensed mental health professional who is experienced in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders.

This self-test was adapted from the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire Fourth Edition Plus (PDQ-4), the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5) and from criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It is designed to screen for the possibility of NPD, and it is for personal use only. This test is not intended as a diagnostic tool. Only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose NPD.

I think most people are jealous of me.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I feel best when other people to take notice of and applaud my accomplishments.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I am motivated to do things by the promise of gaining the admiration and positive attention of others.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I envy those who get lucky and succeed regardless of work or merit.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I expect other people to do favors for me.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I often reflect on my accomplishments and fantasize about my future endeavors.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I believe that only certain, special people can truly appreciate and understand me.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I generally do not feel a strong compulsion to do favors for others.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I am special and important in a unique way. I have outstanding qualities that few others possess.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

People often complain that I do not realize that they are upset, or that I otherwise ignore or disregard their feelings.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I’m told that I don’t react well – at all – to criticism.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I am often told that I take advantage of others.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

Others consider me stuck up.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

I think I accomplish far more than others tend to give me credit for.

Very Often

Often

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

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Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Next Steps

Self-Test: Borderline Personality Disorder Test for Adults
Read: What Is a Personality Disorder? Symptoms of Borderline, Histrionic, Narcissistic & Other PDs
Read: What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?
Read: Why Adults with ADHD Are Particularly Vulnerable to Manipulation
Read: How to Respond to Gaslighting — In Your Relationship and In Yourself
Read: DBT — The Emotional Control Therapy You Need Now

View Article Sources

¹ American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Narcissistic personality disorder. In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).

²American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Alternative DSM-5 model for personality disorders. In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).

³ Stinson, F. S., Dawson, D. A., Goldstein, R. B., Chou, S. P., Huang, B., Smith, S. M., Ruan, W. J., Pulay, A. J., Saha, T. D., Pickering, R. P., & Grant, B. F. (2008). Prevalence, correlates, disability, and comorbidity of DSM-IV narcissistic personality disorder: results from the wave 2 national epidemiologic survey on alcohol and related conditions. The Journal of clinical psychiatry, 69(7), 1033–1045. https://doi.org/10.4088/jcp.v69n0701

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Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI-40) • Psychologist Yaroslav Isaikin

Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) The Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) is a widely used tool for determining the degree of narcissism in social psychology research. Despite the fact that different sources offer different versions of the questionnaire, only one of them, consisting of 40 questions with ready-made answers, is most often used in research. The questionnaire is based on the clinical criteria for defining narcissism described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition (DSM-III). NOL is used to measure relevant characteristics in all segments of the population and is applicable to identify "normal" or "hidden" (borderline) narcissism (high scorers do not always qualify for a diagnosis of narcissism). nine0003

Because the questionnaire was originally based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria, a lot of research has been done into its factor structure. Robert Raskin and Howard Terry (1988) identified 7 factors of narcissism, such as lust for power, a sense of superiority, exhibitionism, taking things for granted, vanity, tendencies to exploit other people's resources, and self-confidence. The above criteria have been broadly compared with the DSM criteria for defining narcissism. Since that time, a number of studies have been carried out, the essence of which was to test the factor structure of NOL. The results of studies varied, for example, some studies indicated the presence of three factors, others - four. Moreover, there are often cases where NOL factors show a very low level of internal consistency, despite the fact that the measurement range as a whole shows an acceptable level of reliability. Thus, it can be concluded that the factor structure of NOL is unknown. Recent studies have attempted to identify narcissism by just one criterion. Compared to NOL, this method has only one advantage: it does not combine narcissism and normal self-esteem or healthy self-esteem. nine0003

Research has shown that people who score high on NFA scores are more likely to cheat at games and cheat in romantic relationships. It also revealed the desire of such people for an unequal distribution of resources (more for themselves, less for others), the predominance of material values and an obsession with their appearance.

1.1

I have a natural talent for influencing people

I am not very good at influencing people

2.2

Modesty does not suit me

Basically, I am a modest person

3.3

I will do anything for a dare

I tend to be a rather cautious person

4.4

When people compliment me, I sometimes feel embarrassed

I know I'm good because everyone tells me so every now and then

5.5

The thought of ruling the world scares me terribly

If I ruled the world, it would be better

6.6

Usually I can get out of any situation

I try to take responsibility for the consequences of my behavior

7.7

I like to blend in with the crowd

I like to be the center of attention

8.8

I will succeed

I am not very worried about success

9.9

I am no better or worse than other people

I think I am a special person

10. 10

I'm not sure I would make a good leader

I see myself as a good leader

11.11

I am confident

I would like to become more confident

12/12

I like to have power over people

I don't mind following others

13.13

I can easily manipulate people

I don't like it when it turns out that I manipulate people

14.14

I insist on getting the respect I deserve

I usually get the respect I deserve

15.15

I don't particularly like to show my body

I like to show my body

16.16

I can read a person like a book

People are sometimes difficult to understand

17.17

If I feel competent, I am ready to take responsibility for making decisions

I like to take responsibility for making decisions

18.18

I just want to be reasonably happy

I want to represent myself in the world

19. 19

There is nothing special about my body

I like to look at my body

20.20

I try not to flaunt myself

I tend to flaunt myself if possible

21.21

I always know what I'm doing

Sometimes I'm not sure why I'm doing something

22.22

I sometimes have to depend on people to get results

I rarely depend on someone else to get results

23.23

Sometimes I tell good stories

Everyone likes to hear my stories

24.24

I expect a lot from other people

I enjoy doing things for other people

25.25

I am never satisfied until I get everything I deserve

I am satisfied with what I get

26.26

Compliments make me feel uncomfortable

I like being complimented

27.27

I have a strong desire for power

I am not interested in power for the sake of power

28.28

I don't care about new fashions and hobbies

I enjoy being the source of new fashions and hobbies

29. 29

I like to look at myself in the mirror

I am not very interested in looking at myself in the mirror

30.30

I really enjoy being the center of attention

I feel uncomfortable being the center of attention

31.31

I can live the way I want

People can't always live the way they want

32.32

Having authority is not a big deal to me

People always seem to recognize my authority

33.33

I'd rather be a leader

It doesn't make much difference to me whether I'm a leader or not

34.34

I am going to be a great person

I hope that I will be successful

35.35

People sometimes believe what I tell them

I can make anyone believe anything I want

36.36

I am a born leader

Leadership is a quality that takes a long time to develop

37.37

I wish someone would write my biography someday

I don't like it when people pry into my life for whatever reason

38. 38

I get upset when people don't notice how I look when I go out in public

I don't mind blending in when I go out in public

39.39

I am more capable than other people

I have a lot to learn from other people

40.40

I am in many ways the same as everyone else

I am an extraordinary person

Narcissistic personality disorder test

Contents

1 Narcissism Test
2 Narcissistic Personality Test
3 Character Accentuation Test
4 Alternative Test

A variety of methods are used to diagnose narcissistic personality disorder. A psychologist or psychiatrist necessarily conducts a general examination and questioning of the patient and his relatives, clarifies in detail the manifestations of the syndrome, the age at which they were first noticed. Also, various tests can be used to clarify the diagnosis. nine0003

Narcissism test

NPI is an internationally recognized test for narcissism. It was developed in 1979 by Raskin and Hall to measure the manifestations of narcissism as a personality trait in sociopsychological research. It is based on the DSM III definition of narcissistic personality disorder, which was current at the time the test was developed. However, it cannot be used as the only tool for diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder. The test can show high scores even in healthy people or people with minimal manifestations of narcissism. It should only be used in combination with other examination methods for the most accurate diagnosis. nine0003

The test consists of 40 pairs of statements, from which the patient is asked to choose one that characterizes his personality and inherent features of behavior as much as possible. It is undesirable to think over the questions of the test for a long time, so its completion usually takes from 7 to 10 minutes.

For a more reliable interpretation of the results, it is recommended to pass this test under the supervision of a psychologist, and if you nevertheless passed it on your own, contact a professional with the results for a more reliable interpretation. nine0003

All test statements are divided into groups according to personality traits:

Authority. This group of questions reveals a person's propensity for leadership, his desire to occupy leadership positions, confidence in his leadership abilities, the need for success, authority, power, and the degree of self-confidence.
Self-sufficiency. In this group, questions are aimed at clarifying the ability to work independently, the tendency to take responsibility, confidence in one's abilities and capabilities, and the scale of plans for the future. nine0254
Superiority. Here, the patient's self-conceit is clarified with the help of questions about his abilities, attitude to compliments, a sense of his own peculiarity, the desire to share the details of his life with others.
The patient's conspicuousness is determined both by direct questions about the tendency to show oneself, and questions about the attitude to modesty, behavior in public, the desire to follow fashion, the tendency to be in the center of attention of other people and make bets with them. nine0254
Use of people. This group of questions reveals the patient's ability to manipulate the minds of others, to avoid responsibility for actions, to understand people, to convince of anything, the presence of oratory.
Vanity is defined by the love of narcissism and the tendency to show off one's body.
Chosenness. The opinion about one's own superiority is revealed in a number of statements about the ability to be content with what is available, expectations from people, the desire for power, the need for respect, the desire to control others. nine0254

For each statement relating to narcissistic character traits, the subject is awarded one point. Thus, the maximum score is 40. The average score in the test, based on a survey of almost 3,500 people, is 15.2 points.

Test for narcissistic personality traits

Russian psychiatrists Shamshikova and Klepikova developed their own scale for assessing narcissistic personality disorder. The test is similar to the NPI, it has expanded the number of diagnostic scales and improved the system for assessing the severity of indicators. It includes 67 statements grouped into 9classes. When answering, it is proposed to evaluate the severity of each indicator on a five-point scale.

Groups of statements are made according to the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria:

Confidence in one's own uniqueness.
The need for special treatment.
Inability to understand the feelings of others.
Excessive sense of self-importance.
The need for admiration.
Envy of others.
Manipulation of relatives. nine0254
Insolence, arrogance.
Fantasizing about one's exclusive role.

Test for character accentuation

The standard Schmishek-Leonhard test for character accentuation can also tell a psychotherapist a lot. The identification of the predominance of signs characteristic of hyperthymic, demonstrative or exalted personalities indicates a high probability of the presence of narcissism. The same signs in the degree of character accentuation, especially if they are combined with narcissistic behavioral characteristics, can reliably indicate the corresponding personality disorder. nine0003

Alternative test

Researchers at Indiana State University have come up with an alternative test for narcissism. Their questionnaire includes only one question: “How much does the statement “I am a narcissist” characterize you?” and involves an assessment on a seven-point scale. They argue that the concept of narcissism is familiar enough to people that there is no need to ask further clarifying questions. If necessary, they offer to clarify that narcissistic personality disorder means selfishness, soullessness, self-centeredness. According to the authors of the study, about 2,500 people have already been interviewed and the test results are similar to those for the NPI test, which is considered the most reliable. nine0003

In any case, you should not blindly trust the tests.

Learn more