Narcissists have a prominent place in the popular imagination , and the label "narcissist" is widely deployed to refer to people who appear too full of themselves. There's also a growing sense that narcissism is on the rise around the world, especially among young people, although most psychological research does not support that notion.
What Is Narcissism? (Plain Language Explanation)
Narcissism refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Narcissism
- Symptoms: The specific ways narcissism shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen narcissism
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When narcissism occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Narcissism
- Narcissism is far more common than most people realize
- Narcissism is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with narcissism see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about narcissism is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing narcissism, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.