‘Narcissist’ has become somewhat of a buzzword in recent years – but did you know not all narcissists are the same? We asked an expert about the 5 distinct narcissism types, how to spot them, and how to handle each.
Words: Amy Mica Marsden. Images: Shutterstock
Not all narcissists were created equal – and not all are easy to spot.
Ever since the term narcissism was coined in 1889, named for the Greek myth of a boy who was cursed to fall in love with his own reflection, psychologists and mental health professionals have been fascinated by the disorder.
While only those with overt Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) can be clinically diagnosed, there are thought to be 5 or more distinct ways narcissistic personality traits can show up.
‘Narcissism is not a single, fixed presentation,’ says Dr Sarah Davies, chartered psychologist, narcissism expert and author of new book Narcissists at Work: How to navigate difficult people and workplace toxicity.
‘In my clinical work, I see it across a spectrum of subtypes – each with its own distinct flavour, but all sharing the same core wound: an inability to regulate self-worth without external validation or control.’
We spoke to Dr Sarah to learn about the 5 main narcissistic subtypes, how to spot them, and how to handle each type if you ever come across them.
The 5 types of narcissists
- Grandiose (Overt) Narcissism
Grandiose or overt narcissism is perhaps the most widely recognisable and the easiest to spot. Grandiose narcissists are typically entitled, dominant, and charismatic, with an obvious and loud sense of self-belief. However, the level of care they show for those around them is often minimal, to a damaging degree.
How to spot them: ‘They dominate conversations, take credit freely, struggle to tolerate any challenge to their authority, and can turn hostile rapidly when they feel disrespected.’
Dr Sarah’s advice: ‘Keep interactions professional and structured. Offer measured, honest feedback only when necessary, and frame it in terms of outcomes rather than personal criticism. Do not compete for status – it fuels them. Protect your boundaries quietly and consistently.’
- Vulnerable (Covert) Narcissism
Covert narcissists tend to be much harder to spot, often flying under the radar – but that doesn’t mean they don’t cause damage in their own way. The vulnerable or covert narcissist is often shy, self-deprecating and extremely sensitive.
They may paint themselves as a victim wherever possible; however, deep down, they crave the same level of special recognition as an overt narcissist and are equally unable to take critique. You can read more about covert narcissism here.
How to spot them: ‘Chronic feelings of being underappreciated, passive-aggressive behaviour, a tendency to withdraw when they don’t receive the response they were hoping for, and an ability to make others feel guilty for perfectly reasonable boundaries.’
Dr Sarah’s advice: ‘Validation can temporarily de-escalate tension, but it is not a long-term strategy. Clear, consistent communication and firm (but not unkind) boundaries are essential. If you find yourself constantly walking on eggshells, that is important information.’
- Malignant Narcissism
On the spectrum of narcissism, the malignant type is definitely at the more severe end. Narcissists of this type may be aggressive, antisocial, and sometimes even paranoid. They can cause genuine harm (either psychological, professional, or even physical) to those around them with little to no remorse, and may even be deliberately cruel.
How to spot them: ‘Calculated manipulation, enjoyment of others’ distress, a willingness to deceive or intimidate to maintain control, and a pattern of targeting specific individuals with sustained campaigns of undermining or humiliation.’
Dr Sarah’s advice: ‘Minimise contact wherever possible. Document everything. Do not attempt to appeal to their empathy – it will not work and may make you more vulnerable. Seek professional support and, where relevant, legal or HR advice. Safety must come first.’
- Communal Narcissism
Like the covert narcissist, communal narcissists may be much harder to spot than others. At first, they seem deeply caring and generous, often involved in charity or community-building activities.
They tend to believe that they are good people who are truly selfless; however, this is all to flatter their own ego. At heart, they feel the same intrinsic need to be recognised as ‘special’ as other narcissists on this spectrum, and they will be unhappy if their contributions go unacknowledged.
How to spot them: ‘They often position themselves at the centre of charitable, spiritual, or community efforts. Their generosity comes with an unspoken expectation of recognition. They can be deeply resentful when others don’t acknowledge their sacrifices.’
Dr Sarah’s advice: ‘Acknowledging their contributions tends to reduce friction. However, if their behaviour is causing harm – particularly in professional or team settings – the same principles of clear boundaries and documentation apply.’
- Antagonistic Narcissism
Imagine a sore loser in the extreme, and you might have a good idea of an antagonistic narcissist. People with this trait tend to be extremely competitive, trying to win or defeat others at any cost. They will likely be argumentative or dismissive and will take pleasure in being right or making others feel inadequate.
How to spot them: ‘A persistent need to one-up others, difficulty acknowledging others’ perspectives, contemptuous reactions to disagreement, and a pattern of short-lived relationships characterised by conflict.’
Dr Sarah’s advice: Choose your battles carefully. Engaging in debate or competition tends to escalate rather than resolve. Stay grounded in facts, keep emotional reactions minimal, and be clear about what you are and are not willing to accept.
Narcissists at Work: How to navigate difficult people and workplace toxicity by Dr Sarah Davies (Souvenir Press, £14.99) is available now.
