Doctor explains seven key traits of highly narcissistic people
An clinical psychologist who dubs himself a 'leader in the field of treatment for narcissism' has explained the core characteristics of one.
Dr David B Hawkins, who has worked in the field for more than 40 years, reckons there are seven key traits which you should keep an eye out for in a person - as it could suggest there's a narcissist in your midst.
He runs the Marriage Recovery Center and The Emotional Abuse Institute, which claims to have helped thousands of couples save their relationships as well as aiding the healing of a host of patients.
Dr Hawkins has penned more than 40 books on these topics, according to his website, while he also offers training for mental health professionals on 'navigating narcissistic and emotionally abusive dynamics'.
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The expert, who is based in Seattle, lends his knowledge to loads of clients - but he also shares nuggets of advice online too.
That's because he reckons there are a lot of 'myths about narcissism' on the internet, which he wants to debunk.
So, lets get the basics out of the way first.
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition causes an increased sense of self-importance, a need for admiration and often a lack of empathy for others.
According to Dr Hawkins, it 'exists on a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe symptoms'.
"While certain characteristics like self-centredness, grandiosity, and a lack of empathy might be present in individuals, it does not necessarily mean they have a full-blown diagnosis of NPD," he said in a 2023 post.
"In reality, many people may display some narcissistic traits without meeting the diagnostic criteria for NPD.
"It is essential not to rush into labelling someone and instead approach the situation with greater nuance and understanding of the disorder’s complexities."
Still, if you read between the lines of someone's subtle behaviours, you might be able to spot signs they could have NPD.
The clinical psychologist explained 'seven habits of highly narcissistic people' that you can look out for in a YouTube video shared back in November 2023.
He reeled them off in a short video which has racked up more than 1.5million views.
First off, Dr Hawkins said 'they act as if they are always right', followed by them strolling around with 'an attitude of superiority'.
"They act as if they shouldn't be challenged - never challenge them, never threaten them in any way, shape or form,"
He then explained that in his view, highly narcissistic people also 'act as if they shouldn't be challenged or threatened in any way, shape or form'.
Dr Hawkins then noted that narcissists often 'act as if they have a right to be hurtful', as well as acting dismissive.
"They act like that they don't need to hear what they don't want to hear," he then added, before revealing the final trait to be wary of.
"And the last habit...they act like they are incredibly unique."
Topics: Mental Health, YouTube
Olivia Burke