NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a psychological disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy for others. Individuals with NPD often display arrogant and manipulative behaviors and have an inflated sense of their own importance. This disorder is a complex condition that affects both patients and those around them. Given the great importance of the topic, this narrative literature review brought together articles from the main databases in order to point out the diagnostic criteria for narcissistic personality disorder, in addition to addressing its symptoms, treatment and challenges. It was concluded that the diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder is evidenced by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Symptoms of NPD can manifest themselves in a variety of ways, significantly impacting the personal and professional lives of affected individuals, and include: grandiosity, lack of empathy, need for admiration, exploratory behavior, and problematic interpersonal relationships. Treatment for NPD is challenging and usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and, in some cases, medication.