When you hear the word narcissist, what comes to mind? You may think of an arrogant, selfish person who is obsessed with their appearance and needs to be the center of attention.
Yes, they may look and act like that, but not all narcissists are the same. Narcissism is more complex than that. In fact, it manifests itself in different ways. Some are “overt” or loud, while others are “covert” or hidden.
Today, we will discuss the different types of narcissism. As a result, you will be able to spot them more easily.
You will also know how to respond to these behaviors in relationships, friendships, at work, or even within yourself.
Knowledge is power—and when it comes to narcissism, knowledge is your armor.
What Is Narcissism?
But before we look at the types of narcissism, let’s be sure we are clear on the definition of narcissism.
In short, it is someone who…
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Has a strong need for admiration and validation.
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Lacks empathy towards others.
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Has an inflated (or fragile) sense of self-importance.
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Manipulates and acts in a controlling manner.
Don’t be alarmed if you relate to a little bit of these traits (we all do). It’s okay to be confident and self-assured. Healthy narcissism (a.k.a. self-love) is necessary to be successful and live a happy life.
Unhealthy narcissism is when these traits become extreme and become damaging to yourself and others.
Types Of Narcissism
1. Grandiose Narcissism
Grandiose narcissism is what most people envision when they hear the word narcissist. It is the “loud” type that is overtly arrogant, confident, and charming.
Traits include:
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Excessive arrogance and a sense of superiority.
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Constant need for admiration and praise.
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Exploitative and opportunistic in relationships.
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Belief that they are destined for greatness.
Everyday example:
Your boss taking credit for everyone’s work, talking about their own success endlessly, and belittling other people’s accomplishments.
How to deal:
Stand your ground and remember your own value. Don’t let their bravado or intimidation tactics get to you.
Related: 9 Weaknesses Of Narcissists
2. Vulnerable Narcissism
Also known as covert narcissism, this type of narcissist is not as “loud” as the grandiose type. Instead of being brazen and domineering, they are more sensitive, defensive, and sometimes even insecure.
Traits include:
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Low self-esteem masked by defensiveness and hostility.
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Being easily offended or taking things as criticism.
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Passive-aggressive behavior and need to “one-up” others.
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Victim mentality, playing the martyr to get sympathy.
Everyday example:
The friend that constantly tells you that they never feel appreciated but gets upset when you do not agree with everything they say.
How to deal:
Set boundaries. You can be kind and understanding without letting their “victim” mindset drag you down.
Related: How To Starve A Narcissist
3. Malignant Narcissism
Malignant narcissism is the most severe form of narcissism because it not only has the grandiose traits mentioned above but also contains elements of aggression and even sadism.
A malignant narcissist will typically exhibit behaviors that are hostile, vindictive, and controlling.
Traits include:
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Hostility and aggression towards others.
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Manipulative and exploitative.
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Lack of remorse or guilt.
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May have antisocial personality disorder traits.
Everyday example:
That partner who uses intimidation and excessive control over you, constantly criticizes you, and has no empathy when they hurt you.
How to deal:
Put up your boundaries and protect yourself. Stay away or cut off contact if possible. Do not face a malignant narcissist on your own.
4. Communal Narcissism
A communal narcissist wants to be the most charitable, generous, and moral person in the room. On the outside, they may seem like a saint—but their acts are always done to get attention and admiration, not out of genuine kindness.
Traits include:
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Boasting or bragging about their kindness or generosity.
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Constant need for recognition for helping or “sacrificing” for others.
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Expecting praise and thanks for being “selfless.”
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Judging others for not being “morally superior” like they are.
Everyday example:
The coworker that never stops talking about how much they “sacrifice” for the team or community—but only if people are noticing.
How to deal:
Acknowledge their help, but don’t give them all the credit. Do not let their “selflessness” guilt-trip you.
Related: How To Make A Narcissist Tell You The Truth
5. Somatic Narcissism
Somatic narcissists derive their self-worth from physical attributes like appearance, health, or sexuality. They obsess over these things as a tool to get attention and admiration.
Traits include:
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Obsession with their looks and body image.
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Constant need for compliments and reassurance.
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Using their looks, flirtation, or charm to manipulate.
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Comparison of their looks to other people.
Everyday example:
The significant other that spends hours in the mirror every day, needs constant validation of their appearance, and criticizes yours.
How to deal:
Don’t compete or try to reach their impossible standards. Focus on your own self-confidence instead.
6. Cerebral Narcissism
The opposite of somatic narcissism, cerebral narcissists gain their self-worth from their perceived level of intelligence and knowledge. They believe they are the smartest person in the room and use that to put others down.
Traits include:
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Arrogance and superiority over others’ intelligence.
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Dismissive of others’ opinions or questions as “stupid.”
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Talk down to other people and put them in their place.
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Need for admiration for their academic or professional achievements.
Everyday example:
The classmate who always interrupts the teacher to show how much more intelligent they are. The same can be applied to a partner or boss.
How to deal:
Do not take their need for superiority as a personal attack on you. Set boundaries during conversations and do not feel the need to prove yourself.
Related; How A Narcissist Brainwashes You
7. Overt Narcissism
Aka grandiose narcissism, it is the “loud” version of narcissism that is attention-seeking and in-your-face. They typically boast, show off, and like to dominate a conversation.
Traits include:
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High energy and lots of attention-seeking.
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Manipulation that is not very subtle.
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Extreme levels of arrogance and confidence.
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Dominant and strong presence in social settings.
Everyday example:
The person at a party or event that you can’t miss. The one that won’t shut up about their new car, new job, or their new body.
Related: 7 Things Narcissists Don’t Want You To Know
8. Covert Narcissism
Also known as vulnerable narcissism, covert narcissists are the opposite of the overt type. They are the ones that are more hidden but still crave recognition and get envious of others.
Traits include:
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Quiet envy of others.
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Hyper-sensitivity.
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Victim mentality and mindset.
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Quiet and covert competitiveness.
Everyday example:
The relative that will downplay your achievements but subtly fish for sympathy about their own misfortunes and situations.
Related: 7 Things a Narcissist Will Never Do for You
9. Spiritual Narcissism
This type of narcissist uses religion, spirituality, or the need to be better at personal growth as a vehicle for superiority over others. They may present themselves as “enlightened” but can be very judgmental of others.
Traits include:
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Use of religion or spirituality as a means of feeling better than others.
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Dismissive of other people’s feelings and emotions as “low vibrations.”
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Preaching but not practicing compassion.
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Constant need for recognition for being “spiritual” or “advanced.”
Everyday example:
The yoga teacher or spiritual guide that constantly reminds you how “far along on the path” they are while shaming you for not meditating enough or eating a certain way.
How to deal:
Don’t let their “spiritual superiority” make you feel like you are less or “lower” than they are on your own path.
10. Healthy Narcissism
Wait, is healthy narcissism even a thing? Yes, it is.
A healthy amount of self-love and confidence is essential to be successful and have a happy life. This is healthy narcissism.
Traits include:
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Confidence without crossing over to arrogance.
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Pride in your own achievements.
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Healthy self-respect and boundaries with others.
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Self-care and self-love.
Everyday example:
The friend that congratulates you on your promotion just as much as they will gloat over their own.
Why Is It Important to Understand the Types of Narcissism?
Understanding and recognizing the different types of narcissism is crucial for several reasons. You will be able to:
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Spot red flags early on in friendships, romantic relationships, or the workplace.
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Protect your mental health from toxic manipulation and emotional abuse.
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Set boundaries so you are not constantly drained.
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Distinguish between healthy self-confidence and toxic narcissism.
The more aware and informed you are about these patterns, the better you can avoid toxic situations and protect your own peace.
Final Thoughts
Narcissism does not have one cookie-cutter mold that everyone fits into. Narcissists can present in a variety of ways. Some are obvious, but some can hide behind their kindness, intelligence, spirituality, or even their generosity.
The more you know about the different types of narcissism, the easier it will be to deal with. You will also be able to protect yourself from their manipulation and toxic energy.
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