Am I a Narcissist? A Science-Based Self-Check
The word "narcissist" gets used casually in everyday conversation, but genuine narcissistic traits exist on a spectrum. Most people display some degree of self-focus — it is a normal part of being human. The question is not whether you ever think about yourself, but whether certain patterns have become rigid enough to affect your relationships and self-perception.
Narcissistic Personality Inventory research, originally developed by Raskin and Hall in 1979 and later refined into the NPI-16 by Ames, Rose, and Anderson in 2006, identified specific trait clusters that distinguish typical self-confidence from more entrenched narcissistic patterns. These include grandiosity, a sense of entitlement, and difficulty recognising or prioritising other people’s emotional experiences.
This self-check draws on those established dimensions. It will not diagnose you — narcissistic personality disorder can only be assessed by a qualified clinician. But it can help you notice patterns you might otherwise overlook, and reflect on how they show up in your daily interactions.
Approaching this honestly takes courage. The fact that you are here suggests a level of self-awareness that is, in itself, meaningful.
Patterns Worth Reflecting On
- You find it difficult to genuinely celebrate other people’s achievements without relating them back to yourself.
- You frequently feel that you deserve special treatment or recognition that others do not.
- Criticism — even constructive feedback — triggers a disproportionately strong emotional response.
- You notice that relationships tend to revolve around your needs and preferences.
- You sometimes exaggerate your accomplishments or talents to maintain a certain image.
- You struggle to stay engaged when a conversation is not about you or your interests.
- You have been told by more than one person that you lack empathy, even if you disagree.
- You tend to view people as either very useful to you or not worth your time.