- The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) requires five or more of a list of symptoms to be present in order for the disorder to be diagnosed.
- According to the DSM-IV, symptoms of NPD include a grandiose sense of self-importance, preoccupation with fantasies of limitless success, power, intelligence and beauty, inflated sense of being special, need for excessive admiration from others and an extreme entitlement complex.
- Also used as possible symptoms for the diagnosis of NPD are lack of empathy, envy of others coupled with the belief that others are envious of them, arrogant attitude and haughty behavior, and taking advantage of others to achieve her goals.
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder usually manifests symptoms by early adulthood. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, although unreliable care from parents and emotional abuse during childhood may be factors in some cases.
- Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Pharmaceutical therapy is rarely beneficial.
