Difference Between Narcissism & Psychopathy
The Spectrum of Narcissistic and Antisocial Personality
Oct 28, 2007
Psychopathy or Extreme Narcissism?
The narcissistic personality and the antisocial personality have a lot in common, even when you look at the DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria that clinicians use to differentiate these disorders. Narcissism is essentially self-absorption, so couldn’t psychopathy or antisocial personality be a case of narcissism to the extreme? The experts have differing opinions.
Below are Quick Links to four articles that examine some of what we know about psychopathy and present the perspectives of experts who have differing opinions on the nature of narcissism and psychopathy.
Narcissism and Psychopathy: Degrees or Disorders of Personality?
Can a person be a little psychopathic, and if so, why isn’t this considered narcissism rather than psychopathy? What’s the distinction?
This is the first in a series of three articles examining the relationship between narcissism and psychopathy and the differing opinions of the experts as to whether antisocial personality is extreme narcissism or if psychopathy is something very distinct and discernable.
The Spectrum of Personality: Are Narcissistic PD and Antisocial PD Extremes of Normal Traits?
Social psychologists view personality as existing on a continuum. Clinical psychologists see a distinction between ‘normal’ and ‘pathological.’ Which view is correct?
This is the second in a series of three articles examining the relationship between narcissism and psychopathy and the differing opinions of the experts on these personalities of self-absorption.
The Biology of Psychopathy: Distinctions of Antisocial Mind, Genetics and Behavior
This is the final article in a series examining the relationship between narcissism and psychopathy. Is antisocial personality extreme narcissism a distinct condition?
Perhaps there is a clear demarcation between those who are psychopathic and those who are not. Research has revealed differences in the brain anatomy and physiology of psychopaths, as well as finding traits predictive of psychopathy in children at a very young age. Are these studies evidence of a biological basis for psychopathy?
Psychopathy, Sociopathy or APD: Are These All the Same Psychological Disorder?
One of the reasons that the terms psychopath, sociopath and antisocial personality are so often used interchangeably is that the experts don't agree. This article attempts to disentangle and define these psychopathologies.
Malignant Narcissism: Behavioral Pathology beyond Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Most of us have narcissistic traits, and a certain degree of self-interest is healthy. But at what point does self-absorption become pathological narcissism? This article explores different aspects of narcissistic behavior.
More Information on Psychopathy & Narcissism
Additional resources on psychopathy, narcissism and personality disorders in general include: The Mayo Clinic: Mental Health Center and Psychology Prof Online.
This article contains brief summaries regarding psychopathy, sociopathy and APD. The contents of this article are not meant to be a substitute for professional help and counseling.
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