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What is the difference between narcissistic and sociopath


Similarities & Differences — Talkspace

These days, it’s not unusual to hear people loosely throw around terms like “sociopath” or “narcissist.” They typically are used to describe someone who displays extreme, self-serving, and egocentric behaviors. However, even though the names are sometimes used interchangeably, they’re actually distinct personality disorders with clear, identifiable differences.

When you compare sociopathy vs narcissism, you’ll find that they share traits, which might be part of why so many people confuse the conditions. 

Learning more about the similarities and differences between sociopathy and narcissism can help you differentiate the conditions. We’re discussing both in depth and treatment options for each. 

“The main difference between sociopathy and narcissism is the degree to which someone disregards others. People with sociopathy have no regard for the rights of others or the law, whereas someone with narcissism doesn’t have empathy for others, but isn’t always dangerous. Another key difference is motivation. People with narcissism can be motivated by ego and a need to put themselves above all others. They’ll usually stop before going too far (meaning they’re aware of the consequences when they may suffer a personal cost). Someone with sociopathy, on the other hand, might have no clear motivation and no regard for the consequences of their actions. Both types of personality disorders can be addressed in therapy.”

Talkspace therapist Reshawna Chapple, PhD, LCSW

“What Is a Sociopath?” 

Sociopath isn’t actually an official mental health diagnosis. Instead, it’s a label that’s frequently applied to people with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) who display specific traits. Those with ASPD typically struggle with social norms and disregard the feelings and rights of others. They also can hold little to no regard for the law and may not hesitate to engage in criminal behavior. They also usually have deep insecurities about their true self, which is why they have a false self they project in front of others.

Despite this, sociopaths are often perceived as charming and likable. People with sociopathic traits can have a superficial understanding of emotions, which they can use to manipulate others. Sociopath behavior often includes being willing to exploit others for personal gain. They’re generally quick to abandon people when they no longer need them. 

While not everyone who’s a sociopath is violent, impulsive and violent behavior is strongly associated with antisocial personality disorder. Many people have volatile interactions with others, making it difficult for them to maintain personal relationships or steady employment. 

Signs of sociopathy

  • Lying to and manipulating others for personal gain 
  • Little to no remorse for harmful behaviors
  • Lack empathy for others
  • Struggling with social norms
  • Engaging in harmful — or even illegal — behaviors without considering the consequences 
  • Verbal or physical violence
  • Impulsive or reckless behavior 
  • Disregard for the safety of others

“What is a Narcissist?” 

Narcissism is a personality trait that anyone can exhibit from time to time, but the term narcissist is a label used that often describes someone who is diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). However, it is often loosely used for someone who shows narcissistic behaviors. People with NPD have an inflated view of themselves and constantly crave admiration from others. 

While narcissism can cause an intense need to be validated by others, people with NPD have low levels of empathy and are quick to use others for their own benefit. However, even though someone with narcissism can be egotistical, they’re often very insecure at heart and respond poorly to criticism, even if it’s mild. In some cases, people with NPD may actively avoid situations where they fear they could be criticized. 

Narcissistic personality disorder is a spectrum, and there are many types of narcissism that fall along it. For example, overt narcissists tend to be extroverted and seek out attention, while covert narcissists are introverted and withdrawn. Although the way it presents itself can vary, people with any type of narcissistic personality disorder can share some of the following specific traits.

Narcissistic Traits

The following describe symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder:

  • An inflated sense of self
  • Feeling angry or jealous of others’ success
  • Thinking people are envious of them
  • An inability to connect or empathize with others
  • Perceiving themselves as unique and special 
  • Believing they can only relate to others like them (who are also unique and special)
  • Difficulty handling criticism
  • Poor mood regulation
  • Craving validation or admiration from others
  • Constant fantasizing about becoming more successful and powerful
  • A pervasive feeling of entitlement

Sociopathy vs Narcissism

There are clear similarities when you compare narcissism vs sociopathy, but the conditions are still distinct. Even when people with NPD and ASPD behave similarly, the reasoning behind their behaviors varies. 

Similar Personality Traits

The following symptoms overlap across both mental health conditions:

  • Lack empathy: Limited empathy is a major problem for those with sociopathy and narcissism. This can cause people with both conditions to manipulate or harm others for their own gain. 
  • Charming and charismatic: People with NPD and ASPD can appear charming, especially when trying to get something they want. 
  • Difficulty with self-awareness: In looking at sociopathy vs narcissism, we can see that people with either condition tend to have poor insight into their own thought processes and behaviors. They rarely see an issue with their behavior, even when it hurts the people around them. It can be difficult for them to acknowledge their actions.
  • Mood disorders, substance abuse, and self-harm: According to research, people who suffer from sociopathy or narcissism are more likely to have mood disorders or struggle with substance abuse. People with these conditions often cause harm to others, but they may also hurt themselves, engaging in behaviors like self-harm or even suicide.

“Both people with narcissism and sociopathy believe they’re unique and can only relate to people who are like them. They both lack the ability to connect with other people’s feelings and needs. They both can feel envious of others while believing other people are envious of them. They both seek a sense of control and power. And finally, they both can be charming and manipulative to get what they want. Therapy can help them work on their interpersonal relationships and feel more connected to others.”

Talkspace therapist Reshawna Chapple, PhD, LCSW

Differences

While there are many similarities across these conditions, there are also several stark differences. 

  • Reasons for behaviors: The biggest differences between narcissistic personality disorder vs sociopathy are the reasons behind behaviors. People with NPD desperately want others to see them as successful and are typically motivated by a desire for praise or admiration. In contrast, people with sociopathic behavior don’t need to be admired and simply act based on their own interests.  
  • Intentional harm: Someone with sociopathy can be more calculating than someone with narcissism, and they may even feel happy when they cause pain to others. Narcissism rarely results in feelings of guilt when they cause hurt, but the actions they take are typically in hopes of achieving their goals. Someone with sociopathy, though, may hurt others while working towards a goal, but they also may also intentionally harm someone purely for pleasure. 
  • Risky behavior: Since narcissism makes people strongly desire success, they’re less likely to engage in the risk-taking type of behavior that’s associated with sociopathy. 
  • Legal trouble: Both narcissism and sociopathy can make it hard for someone to maintain employment, but sociopathy is more likely to cause legal troubles. 
  • How they appear to others: Someone with NPD may avoid certain behaviors out of fear over how they would be perceived, but sociopaths don’t care what others think of them.  

Treatment Options for Sociopathy and Narcissism

Since narcissism and sociopathy don’t allow for someone to see anything wrong with their behavior, it’s rare that they’ll seek out treatment on their own. In fact, many people only receive a diagnosis because they’re getting help for another mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression. 

During the diagnostic process, a mental health professional can distinguish between narcissistic personality disorder vs sociopathy, along with other mental health conditions. 

People might be prescribed medications to treat specific symptoms, but the most common form of treatment for both conditions is psychotherapy (also known as talk therapy). Studies show that it’s possible to develop empathy over time. Although it can take time to see results, treatment can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms in both NPD and ASPD. 

Get a Professional Diagnosis with Talkspace

If you or a loved one has shown signs of either narcissistic personality disorder or antisocial behavior, it’s essential that you receive a mental health assessment and diagnosis. A professional can distinguish between sociopathy vs narcissism and recommend the most suitable form of treatment. 

NPD and ASPD can cause people to inflict serious harm on those around them. Research examining narcissism vs sociopathy shows that these conditions can cause serious difficulties with personal relationships. Seeking out treatment may not be easy, but it’s the best way to treat symptoms and get help. 

If you’re looking for a therapist so you can learn more about NPD or ASPD, Talkspace is an online therapy platform that makes getting help easy. Our approach to therapy removes some of the major barriers that prevent people from getting therapeutic help. When therapy sessions are convenient, affordable, and accessible, it can be easier to commit to the process. 

Learn more about how Talkspace is changing how people think and feel about therapy. You can get the help you need to treat NPD or ASPD. Reach out to Talkspace today to get started. 

See references

  • Friborg O, Martinsen E, Martinussen M, Kaiser S, Øvergård K, Rosenvinge J. Comorbidity of personality disorders in mood disorders: A meta-analytic review of 122 studies from 1988 to 2010.
  • Parmar A, Kaloiya G. Comorbidity of Personality Disorder among Substance Use Disorder Patients: A Narrative Review.
  • Riess H. The Science of Empathy. J Patient Exp. 2017;4(2):74-77.
  • Beeney J, Stepp S, Hallquist M et al.

Talkspace articles are written by experienced mental health-wellness contributors; they are grounded in scientific research and evidence-based practices. Articles are extensively reviewed by our team of clinical experts (therapists and psychiatrists of various specialties) to ensure content is accurate and on par with current industry standards.

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The Difference Between a Narcissist and a Sociopath

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You may wonder whether someone is a narcissist or a sociopath and, if it's your partner, whether or not the relationship will improve. Information can empower you. People loosely call others narcissists, but there are nine criteria, five of which are necessary to diagnose someone with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). The following summary diagnosis is controversial:

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

Narcissism exists on a continuum, but someone with NPD is grandiose (sometimes only in fantasy), lacks empathy, and needs admiration from others, demonstrated by five of the following traits:

  1. Has a grandiose sense of self-importance and exaggerates achievements and talents
  2. Dreams of unlimited power, success, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love
  3. Lacks empathy for the feelings and needs of others
  4. Requires excessive admiration
  5. Believes he or she is special and unique and can be understood only by, or should associate only with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)
  6. Unreasonably expects special, favorable treatment or compliance with his or her wishes
  7. Exploits and takes advantage of others to achieve personal ends
  8. Envies others or believes they’re envious of him or her
  9. Has “an attitude” of arrogance or acts that way

There are several types of narcissists—ranging from the common “Exhibitionist Narcissists” to “Inhibited Narcissists,” or closet narcissists. There are narcissists who aren’t vindictive and abusive. However, narcissists who exhibit all or most of the above characteristics intensely and/or frequently are considered malignant narcissists. Narcissists who have fewer and less severe symptoms, along with “narcissistic” people who don’t have full-blown NPD, can have insight, guilt, remorse, and an ability to connect emotionally, as well as to love. (See "Dealing With a Narcissist: 8 Steps to Raise Self-Esteem and Set Limits with Difficult People" to determine if your loved one is capable of change and whether your relationship can improve.)

Antisocial Personality Disorder

The labels sociopath and psychopath have often been used interchangeably. The clinical term is “Antisocial Personality Disorder” (APD). Like NPD, it’s long-lasting and affects all situations. Sometimes permanent, personality disorders are difficult to treat. Someone with APD must have had a conduct disorder by 15 years old and show at least four of these traits:

  • Doesn’t sustain consistent work (or schoolwork)
  • Doesn’t conform to social norms, including unlawful behavior, whether or not arrested
  • Disregards the truth as indicated by repeated lying, conning, using aliases, not paying debts
  • Impulsive or fails to plan ahead; moves around without a goal
  • Irritable and aggressive: e. g., fights or assaults
  • Recklessly disregards the safety of self or others
  • Consistently irresponsible, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations
  • Lacks remorse and feels justified in having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another
  • Doesn’t sustain monogamy for more than one year

Narcissists vs. Sociopaths

Loving a narcissist is painful. Malignant narcissists are the most malicious and destructive and can look like sociopaths.

Shared traits

They both can be charismatic, intelligent, charming, and successful, as well as unreliable, controlling, selfish, disingenuous, and dishonest. They share exaggerated positive self-images and a sense of entitlement. For example, when they’re abusive, they believe they’re justified and deny responsibility for their behavior. They lack insight. Although they might feign appropriate emotional reactions, this is usually insincere, as they lack empathy and emotional responsiveness.

Distinguishing traits

While sociopaths qualify as narcissists, not all narcissists are sociopaths. What drives them differs. But the main distinction is that sociopaths are more cunning and manipulative because their ego isn’t always at stake. In fact, they don’t have any real personality. They’re the ultimate con artists and can take on any persona that suits them. Thus, they may be harder to spot, because they’re not trying to impress you or win your approval—unless it serves their agenda. Instead of bragging, their conversation might center on you rather than on themselves, and they can even be self-effacing and apologetic if it serves their goal.

A sociopath is more calculating and might premeditate aggression in advance. A narcissist is more likely to react sooner with lies and intimidation. Narcissists often work hard to achieve success, fame, and perfection but may exploit others along the way. In contrast, sociopaths try to swindle, steal, or exploit others financially. Although both characters may be motivated to win at all costs, narcissists are more interested in what you think of them. They need others’ admiration. This makes them dependent and codependent on others and actually capable of being manipulated. They’re less likely to divorce their spouse than a sociopath, who might leave or vanish if they’re exposed or don’t get what they want.

Help and Treatment

If you’re in an abusive relationship, whether your partner is a narcissist or a sociopath is irrelevant. You cannot change another person, but changing your behavior will change the relationship. You need support to restore the trust in yourself and others that becomes damaged in an abusive relationship. Find help to set boundaries and raise your self-esteem.

Narcissists and sociopaths don’t usually seek treatment, unless, in the case of NPD, they’re experiencing severe stress, depression, or their partner insists. Those with APD are sometimes unwillingly court-ordered to therapy, which presents problems of trust and receptivity. Therapy should focus on helping them access their feelings and learn from the negative consequences of their behavior.

Many narcissists can improve with a specific treatment, and those who have insight can benefit from psychodynamic psychotherapy. If you suspect you’re in a relationship with a narcissist, learn more about narcissistic relationships and get my checklist of narcissistic behaviors.

Everyone is unique, and people don’t always fit neatly into defined categories. Severe NPD resembles APD, and any differences are really irrelevant. If you’re being abused, get help immediately. Don’t be concerned with a diagnosis; instead, heal yourself from trauma or PTSD and codependency. Become assertive and set limits. Whether you’re thinking of staying or leaving the relationship, neither will be easy. Focus on gaining awareness, protecting yourself, and getting help and support. Follow the steps in my book, Dealing With a Narcissist, to raise your self-esteem, set boundaries, and evaluate the prospects for improving your relationship. When you argue and fight with an abuser, you lose. But that doesn't mean that you shouldn't confront what is going on. However, you need to do so calmly and strategically. Change and a better life are definitely possible.

© Darlene Lancer 2016

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90,000 Psychopaths, sociopaths, narcissists - what's the difference?

Narcissists and Psychopaths

First and foremost, every psychopath has narcissistic traits, but not every narcissist is a psychopath. Many have narcissistic traits, but those diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder are characterized by a lack of empathy and a sense of their own grandiosity. And such people urgently need admiration from others.

Self-esteem of narcissists is lame: deep down they feel vulnerable, and therefore it is so important for them that the people around them were also insecure. Pulling the rest off the pedestal and rising against their background is their defensive tactic. When narcissists do something really bad, they wake up with faint echoes of shame and guilt, while the source of their shame is the opinion of others about them, the possibility of condemnation on their part. nine0005

And this is their serious difference from psychopaths - they do not happen to experience remorse. They don't care if anyone gets hurt, they don't care about the consequences of their own actions.

In addition, these people completely lack the ability to empathize, but they brilliantly manipulate others (and often seem very charming at the same time), use them to their advantage. Cunning is their middle name.

Psychopaths and sociopaths

Psychopaths and sociopaths have much in common - both are diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. The key difference is that psychopaths are born, but sociopaths are made. The latter are at risk of becoming children from dysfunctional families and those who grew up in a criminogenic environment. They may not be as comfortable breaking the law and going against the rules as psychopaths, but they have lived in such an environment for too long and have begun to take these rules of the game for granted. nine0005

A psychopath builds a relationship by using the other solely for his own purposes - financial, sexual or any other. A sociopath, on the other hand, can form quite close ties, however, even in such relationships, he will behave coldly and aloofly. Sociopaths are more impulsive, it is easier to provoke a lively reaction in them.

Psychopaths are more cold-blooded and prudent, their nervous system generally reacts to stimuli differently than ours: for example, when we are frightened, our heart begins to beat furiously, the pupils dilate, sweat flows in a stream; we are preparing for a fight-or-flight response. You won't even notice that a psychopath is scared. His brain functions differently, and it is still unknown what is more influenced here - genetics or environment. nine0005

Most of us tend to avoid things that make us nervous. Psychopaths don't get nervous at all and so they just keep doing what they want. By the way, it is likely that the desire to feel at least something, at least some echo of the arousal characteristic of other people, makes them try their hand at dangerous activities - including extreme sports and activities on the verge of the criminal code and common sense. meaning.

Why is it important for us to understand the difference between narcissists, psychopaths and sociopaths? First of all, in order not to treat everyone with the same brush, not to stick the same labels on different people. But, perhaps, it is much more important to learn to notice the signs described above in the people around you - firstly, in order to gently push them to seek professional help, and secondly, in order to be vigilant yourself and not suffer. nine0005

Narcissists and sociopaths: 5 tactics by which such people take away your strength

Monday, December 19, 2022

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