Narcissistic personality disorder

Alternative names:

self-centeredness

Definition:

A disorder of the personality characterized by an abnormal love of self, self-centeredness, being self-absorbed, and an inability to empathize with the effects of one's behavior on others.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of this disorder is unknown, but one theory proposes that the parents of people who develop this disorder needed their children to be talented or special in order to maintain their own self-esteem. This disorder usually begins by early adulthood. Narcissistic people are unable to perceive themselves and others accurately. They often feel entitled to special treatment by others and can become demanding, angry, and easily offended.