1. Shock from self-awareness

If the results show a high level of narcissistic tendencies, it may create a gap in self-awareness, leading to feelings of shock. This can be particularly true if someone was unaware of any issues in their relationships, and the result can feel emotionally burdensome.

2. Defensive reactions to the results

Being told they have narcissistic traits can make people defensive, leading to denial of the results or resistance to feedback. This defensiveness can hinder personal growth.

3. Misinterpretation or excessive self-criticism

Over-interpreting the results can lead to excessive self-criticism, a loss of confidence, or becoming overly self-deprecating. It's important to remember that some degree of self-love is necessary and to approach the results with balance.

4. Increased comparison to others

Comparing oneself too much to others based on test results may heighten competitiveness or jealousy. This can be particularly problematic if someone perceives themselves as having stronger narcissistic tendencies than others.

5. Risk of labeling

Labeling oneself or others as a 'narcissist' based solely on the results can be harmful. The test is meant to be a tool for self-understanding, not a fixed identity. It’s important to avoid extremes in interpretation.

A narcissist typically has strong self-love, confidence, and enjoys being admired by others. However, this doesn’t always lead to major issues in daily life or relationships, and many narcissists maintain relatively healthy self-love.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), on the other hand, is characterized by extreme self-centeredness and a lack of empathy for others. People with NPD often use others to boost their own standing, which can cause severe problems in relationships, work, and other areas of life. They are also extremely sensitive to criticism or failure, often reacting with intense anger or feelings of depression.

1. Origin of the term 'narcissist'

The word 'narcissist' comes from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a handsome young man who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Obsessed with his beauty, he tried to reach out to his reflection and eventually died. This myth is the origin of the term 'narcissism.'

2. Narcissism can be within a normal range

While 'narcissist' often carries a negative connotation, a moderate level of narcissism is healthy. High self-esteem can boost confidence and motivation. Problems arise when narcissism becomes excessive.

3. Narcissism can be temporary

Studies show that narcissism is particularly strong during adolescence. As young people develop their identity and self-esteem, they may exhibit narcissistic behaviors temporarily. This often decreases with maturity.

4. Social media may increase narcissistic tendencies

In the age of social media, narcissistic behavior can be more visible. Posting about one's lifestyle and appearance to seek admiration from others may reinforce narcissistic tendencies.

5. Narcissists often seem charming at first

Narcissists often make a strong impression when you first meet them, as they tend to be confident and assertive. However, in long-term relationships, their self-centered behavior and lack of empathy often become problematic.

6. The 'Dark Triad'

In psychology, narcissism is part of the 'Dark Triad,' a group of personality traits that includes Machiavellianism (manipulativeness) and psychopathy (lack of empathy and coldness). These traits share a focus on self-interest at the expense of others.

1. Greek Mythology

The concept of narcissism originates from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a handsome young man who rejected the love of others and fell in love with his own reflection. Unable to embrace the reflection he saw, Narcissus eventually died, making him a symbol of self-obsession and excessive self-love.

2. The Renaissance and Individualism

During the Renaissance, individualism became a central theme, and the idea of one's own value and abilities gained prominence. Narcissistic ideas flourished, celebrating beauty and talent, and became a theme in art and literature.

3. The Rise of Psychoanalysis in the 19th Century

Narcissism became a formal psychological concept with the rise of psychoanalysis in the 19th century. Sigmund Freud famously analyzed narcissism, describing it as part of normal psychological development but warning that extreme narcissism could lead to pathological conditions. He distinguished between 'primary narcissism,' seen in infants, and 'secondary narcissism,' which emerges when self-love is not properly balanced through relationships with others.

4. 20th Century Psychoanalysis and Psychology

In the 20th century, theorists like Karen Horney and Heinz Kohut further explored narcissism as a personality disorder. Kohut developed treatments for 'pathological narcissism,' emphasizing how early childhood trauma or dysfunctional parental relationships could contribute to the disorder. Otto Kernberg also classified narcissism as a form of personality disorder.

5. Modern Narcissism in Society

In modern society, narcissism has become a widely recognized phenomenon, especially with the rise of social media, where self-promotion and image curation are common. While healthy self-love can support success and positive self-esteem, extreme narcissism can lead to social isolation and conflict.

A narcissist often exhibits high self-love, overconfidence, and a sense of superiority. While healthy self-love is crucial for self-esteem, excessive narcissism can harm relationships. In today’s society, with the prevalence of social media, the tendency toward narcissism has become more visible. Understanding narcissism is key to balancing self-love with empathy for others, promoting healthier relationships and personal growth.