The Faces of Narcissism

In this episode from the Understand Narcissism podcast, the editorial team explains the importance of understanding narcissism beyond its casual use in everyday language. While many people may exhibit narcissistic traits from time to time, true narcissism—especially in its clinical form as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)—can have a serious impact on relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. The episode distinguishes between narcissistic traits, which may be annoying but not necessarily harmful, and NPD, which involves persistent patterns of entitlement, manipulation, and lack of empathy that often damage both personal and professional relationships. The team shares that their perspective is grounded in personal experience and research, not clinical practice, and aims to provide relatable guidance for those affected by narcissists.

The podcast also explores how narcissism manifests in different relationship contexts—family, romantic partnerships, and the workplace—often through control, emotional manipulation, or exploitation. It highlights two common forms of narcissism: overt narcissists, who display grandiosity and arrogance, and covert narcissists, who present as victims while subtly seeking admiration and control. By shedding light on these behaviors, the episode encourages listeners to recognize early warning signs and begin protecting themselves through boundaries and informed choices. Future episodes and resources will build on this foundation, offering strategies for managing narcissistic dynamics and prioritizing personal mental health.