How to Spot a Narcissist  Psychology Today

September’s cover issue of Psychology Today is devoted to better understanding narcissists. We have a complex relationship with this psychology type because they are charming and tend to dominate 21st century public culture.

A narcissist thrives on controlling behavior that captivates the general public and close social networks because many narcissists exude: attractiveness, competence, interpersonal warmth and humor. Their personalities suggest that they should like other people more — but this is a key difference between the narcissist, who is me-centered, and the extrovert.

Further complicating our dealings with the narcissist is the reality that sincere extroverts share many other characteristics of the narcissist: an endearing interpersonal style; self-assured body movements, friendly facial expressions and plenty of that intoxicating charm.

Leadership and narcissism go hand in hand.

Many extroverted people — especially women it seems to us —- are shot down and locked out of the positive impressions index because they are confused with narcissists. American women in particular, are dethroned for not exhibiting humble behavior, as an extension of their charm.

This read weaves together narcissism, the more intentionally exploitative behavior that is Machiavellianism, and dark, often deadly psychopathy as a distinct ‘dark triad’, with narcissism defined the gentlest star, being the one linked to charm, popularity and large social networks.

Both male and female narcissists are known as sexual provocateurs.