Narcissism and psychopathy are two personality disorders that are often misunderstood and misinterpreted by the general public. Both disorders have distinct characteristics and traits that set them apart, but they also share some similarities. In this article, we will outline the characteristics of a narcissist and a psychopath, examine the misconceptions surrounding both disorders and explore their similarities and differences. We will also discuss the impact of abuse by individuals with these disorders and provide some self-help tips for recovery.
Characteristics of a Narcissist:
Narcissism is a personality disorder characterised by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) often have an inflated sense of their own abilities and achievements and may believe that they are superior to others. They may also be preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, or beauty, and may require excessive admiration from others. Narcissists often exploit others to achieve their own goals and may feel entitled to special treatment.
Other characteristics of a narcissist may include:
- A lack of empathy for others
- A sense of entitlement and a belief that they are special and unique
- A need for constant admiration and validation
- A tendency to exploit others for their own gain
- Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
- A tendency to be envious of others and believe others are envious of them
- A tendency to be arrogant and haughty
Characteristics of a Psychopath:
Psychopaths who often display a severe form of antisocial personality disorder, are a personality disorder characterised by a lack of empathy and remorse, superficial charm, manipulative behaviour, and a tendency to engage in impulsive and irresponsible behaviour. Psychopaths often have a superficial charm and can be highly skilled at manipulating others to achieve their own ends. They may also exhibit a lack of guilt or empathy for the harm they cause to others. Psychopaths may engage in criminal behaviour or have a history of legal issues, and they may be adept at lying and deceiving others.
Other characteristics of a psychopath may include:
- A lack of remorse or guilt for their actions
- Superficial charm and the ability to be manipulative
- Impulsivity and a tendency to engage in risky behavior
- A lack of empathy for others
- Disregard for the safety and well-being of others
- An inability to form close and meaningful relationships
Misconceptions of a Narcissist:
One common misconception of narcissists is that they are just people who are overly confident or self-assured. While narcissistic traits may be present in many individuals to some extent, true narcissistic personality disorder goes beyond mere confidence. People with NPD often have a deeply ingrained sense of superiority and entitlement, and their behaviour can be manipulative and harmful to those around them. Another misconception is that narcissists are always loud and attention-seeking. In reality, narcissistic behaviour can manifest in more subtle ways, such as passive-aggressive attitudes and covert manipulation.
Misconceptions of a Psychopath:
One common misconception of psychopaths is that they are all violent criminals. While some psychopaths may engage in criminal behavior, many psychopaths lead seemingly everyday lives and hold down regular jobs. Another misconception is that all psychopaths are cold and calculating, with no emotions at all. In reality, psychopaths may be able to mimic emotions and use them to manipulate others, but they lack the ability to truly feel empathy or remorse.
Similarities and Differences of a Narcissist and Psychopath
Narcissism and psychopathy share some common characteristics, such as a lack of empathy, manipulative behaviour, and a tendency to exploit others. However, there are also important differences between the two disorders. While narcissists may have an inflated sense of self-importance and a need for admiration, they may also experience moments of vulnerability and insecurity. Psychopaths, on the other hand, tend to have a complete lack of remorse or empathy and may engage in more extreme and impulsive behavior.
For example, a narcissist may manipulate and exploit others in order to maintain their self-image and receive admiration from those around them. They may also experience moments of vulnerability and insecurity, particularly when their sense of self-worth is threatened. An example of this could be a narcissistic individual becoming deeply upset when they don’t receive the praise and attention they feel entitled to.
On the other hand, a psychopath may engage in more extreme and impulsive behavior, such as criminal activity, without feeling any remorse or empathy for their actions. An example of this could be a psychopath committing a violent crime and showing no signs of guilt or sympathy towards the victim.
Overall, while both narcissism and psychopathy share some common traits, such as a lack of empathy and manipulative behaviour, the differences lie in the level of remorse or vulnerability experienced by each individual with these disorders.
Another key difference is in the underlying motivations of the two disorders. Narcissists may seek admiration and validation from others in order to bolster their fragile self-esteem, while psychopaths may be driven by a more callous and unfeeling desire for power and control. Additionally, while narcissists may have difficulty forming lasting and meaningful relationships, they may still be capable of feeling some degree of attachment to others when their needs are being met. Psychopaths, on the other hand, have a complete absence of empathic feelings and are unable to form genuine emotional connections with others.
For example, a narcissist might constantly seek validation and praise from their friends and, family and strangers if needed to feel good about themselves or for control, while a psychopath might manipulate and exploit others in purely to exert power and control over them.
In terms of relationships, a narcissist may struggle to maintain deep and meaningful connections with others, but they may still experience moments of genuine affection when their needs are being met. However, a psychopath may show a complete lack of empathy and use others purely for their own gain without any emotional attachment.
Overall, the underlying motivations and emotional capabilities of narcissists and psychopaths differ significantly, leading to distinct behavioural patterns and interpersonal dynamics.
Regardless of What You’re Dealing With, Abuse is Abuse:
Regardless of whether you are dealing with a narcissist or a psychopath, it’s important to recognise that abuse is abuse. Both disorders can have a significant impact on the lives of those who come into contact with individuals suffering from NPD or psychopathy. Manipulation, gaslighting, emotional and psychological abuse, and in some cases, physical abuse, are all common tactics used by individuals with these disorders to maintain power and control over others.
It’s crucial to understand that regardless of their underlying motivations and behaviours, individuals with narcissistic or psychopathic traits are responsible for their actions and must be held accountable for any harm they cause. Labelling and understanding these disorders can be important for recognising and addressing the abuse that may occur, but it should never be used as an excuse for their behaviour.
Self-Help Tips for Recovery:
If you have been the victim of abuse by a narcissist or psychopath, it’s important to seek support and take steps to heal from the trauma. Here are a few self-help tips for recovery:
- Seek professional help: It’s important to seek therapy or counselling from a trained mental health professional who can provide support and guidance as you navigate the healing process. (Sponsored.). https://betterhelp.com/elizabethshaw
- Establish healthy boundaries: The best boundaries around narcissists or psychopaths are emotional, psychological and physical distance. Learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries is crucial for protecting yourself from further harm. It’s important to recognise and assert your own needs and priorities and to develop a strong sense of self-worth.
- Practice self-care: Engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with supportive friends and family, can help to reduce stress and promote healing.
- Educate yourself: Educating yourself about narcissism and psychopathy can help you to understand and make sense of the abuse you have experienced. It can also help you to recognise red flags and protect yourself in the future.
- Build a support network: Surrounding yourself with supportive and understanding individuals can provide a source of strength and comfort as you heal from the trauma of abuse.
In conclusion, narcissism and psychopathy are complex personality disorders that can have a significant impact on the lives of those who come into contact with individuals suffering from these conditions. It’s important to recognise the characteristics and traits of both disorders, as well as the misconceptions and similarities between them. Regardless of the specific nature of the abuse you have experienced, it’s important to recognise that abuse is abuse, and the responsibility lies with the abuser. Seeking support and taking steps to heal from the trauma is crucial, and it’s important to remember that you are not alone in your journey to recovery.
Rules To Deal With Narcissistic People. (Understanding Narcissism.)
Click on the links below to join Elizabeth Shaw – Life Coach, on social media for more information on Overcoming Narcissistic Abuse.
The online courses are available by Elizabeth Shaw.
For the full course.
For the free course.
Click here to sign up for the free online starter course.
To help with overcoming the trauma bond and anxiety course.
Click here for the online course to help you break the trauma bond, and those anxiety triggers.
All about the narcissist Online course.
Click here to learn more about the narcissist personality disorder.
The narcissists counter-parenting.
Elizabeth Shaw is not a Doctor or a therapist. She is a mother of five, a blogger, a survivor of narcissistic abuse, and a life coach, She always recommends you get the support you feel comfortable and happy with. Finding the right support for you. Elizabeth has partnered with BetterHelp (Sponsored.) where you will be matched with a licensed councillor, who specialises in recovery from this kind of abuse.
