The Difference Between Traditional and Hidden Narcissism

 / 

The Difference Between Traditional and Hidden Narcissism

What is hidden narcissism? What’s the difference between the ‘traditional’ and the hidden narcissism? – QuoraBy Dr. Elinor Greenberg

“Hidden Narcissism” and “Traditional Narcissism” are not official diagnostic terms. 

Traditional Narcissist or The Exhibitionist Narcissist:

This is the most easily recognizable form of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. When someone uses the term “traditional,” they are probably referring to the Exhibitionist Narcissist subtype. Exhibitionist Narcissists like to:

  • Be the center of admiring attention.
  • Appear supremely confident.
  • Dominate the conversation.
  • Control what is happening.
  • Be recognized as special and entitled to special treatment.
  • Tell long repetitive stories that they believe show them in a good light.
  • Devalue anything and anyone that dares challenge them in any way.
  • Associate with people, organizations, and objects that they regard as enhancing their own status.

Related – 12 Signs You Are Married To A Narcissist

Hidden Narcissists or The Closet Narcissist:

This subtype of NPD might be called “Hidden Narcissists” because they are much less obvious about how they get their narcissistic supplies. Sometime during childhood, they were actively discouraged from showing off or devalued whenever they were noticed. Their desire to be seen as special went underground. Closet Narcissists typically are:

1. Afraid of the spotlight.

2. Not openly grandiose.

3. Afraid that being the center of attention will lead to having all their inadequacies exposed.

4. Filled with envy for what other people have that they do not have—including self-confidence.

5. Manipulative and indirect about getting what they want from other people.

6. Rarely confrontative.

7. Passive-aggressive.

8. Likely to gossip about you behind your back.

9. Not to be trusted with secrets. If it suits their needs, they will tell everyone everything they swore to you to keep mum about.

10. Likely to give you the cold shoulder and cut you out of their life when they are angry with you.

11. Getting their narcissistic supplies from being close to people or organizations that they admire.

12. Prone to giving overly lavish gifts or doing lots of unasked for favors in the expectation of putting the other person in their debt. Then they feel victimized when the other person does not do similar things for them.

13. Are filled with contentment when they get a compliment from someone that they idealize as special.

Related: – How A Narcissist Plays You And How Their Cycle Of Abuse Works

Punchline:

Not all people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder look like Hollywood’s idea of an arrogant and domineering Narcissist. Some initially appear meek and mild or present themselves as a victim.

So, did you spot a Hidden Narcissism in your life? Leave a comment below

Read on to know Who Is A Narcissist And What Makes One

For a detailed understanding of Narcissism and its discontents watch out the video by Dr Ramani Durvasula




Written by Elinor Greenberg, Ph.D.
Originally appeared in Quora

The Difference Between Traditional and Hidden Narcissism

— Share —

— About the Author —

Leave a Reply



Up Next

Are You The Scapegoat In A Narcissistic Family? 8 Scapegoat Roles

Scapegoat Of A Narcissistic Family? Types Of Scapegoats

Being the scapegoat of a narcissistic family is tough and confusing. You might feel like you are always the problem, no matter what you do. But did you know there are actually different types of family scapegoats? Yup, there are 8 distinct kinds, each with it’s own unique challenges.

But, who is a scapegoat really? When it comes a narcissistic family, there’s always that one person who is unfairly blamed and criticized for everything that goes wrong, even when it’s not their fault. They often bear the brunt of family abuse, feeling like they just can’t catch a break. That is who a scapegoat is.

Understanding the different types of narcissistic family scapegoats can help you make sense of your experiences and see that you are not alone. Whether you are the “truth-teller” who always speaks up or the “rebel” who refuses to conform, knowing your role and where



Up Next

10 Reasons Why Narcissists Never Grow Up Emotionally

Reasons Why Narcissists Never Grow Up Emotionally

Narcissists never grow up emotionally, and trying to deal with them can make you feel like you are dealing with a tantrum-throwing, difficult teenager. Have you ever wondered why some people just can’t seem to act their age, no matter how old they get? Yeah, you might be standing opposite a narcissist.

Narcissists are stuck in a cycle of immaturity that’s both fascinating and frustrating. Be it their constant need for attention or their severe lack of empathy, there’s a lot going on beneath the surface.

That’s why we are going to talk about one of the biggest reasons why they are the way they are. It’s because narcissists never grow emotionally. But why narcissists never grow up? What are the reasons behind their emotionally stunted psyche?

Let’s find out!



Up Next

How To Forgive Narcissistic Parents: 8 Ways To Heal And Move Forward

How To Forgive Narcissistic Parents: Tips To Find Healing

Dealing with narcissistic parents is tough, and trying to forgive them for the way they have treated you can feel impossible and unfair, especially if they are not sorry for their actions. So, how to forgive narcissistic parents?

Forgiving narcissistic parents is important for your own mental and emotional well-being. Always remember that you are not alone, and there are ways to find peace and healing, even when they don’t change.

Today, we are going to help you navigate the tricky waters of forgiveness, offering 8 practical steps to heal and move forward. Whether you are still struggling with past trauma or dealing with your parents now, be rest assured, these tips can help you feel empowered.

So, are you ready to start? Let’s go!



Up Next

11 Effects Of A Narcissistic Parent on Their Children: Parenting Poison

Effects Of A Narcissistic Parent: Parenting Poison

Growing up with a narcissistic parent can leave deep scars that shape who you become. The effects of a narcissistic parent can sneak into every part of your life, from how you see yourself to how you connect with others.

If you have ever felt like you’re constantly seeking approval, struggling to set boundaries, or dealing with a never-ending fear of abandonment, then you are not alone. These are just a few ways narcissistic parents damage their children.

Today, we are going to explore how it feels to be children of narcissistic parents and the damage they cause.

Related:



Up Next

Romantic Manipulation: 10 Subtle Phrases To Watch Out For

Romantic Manipulation: Sneaky Phrases That Signal Trouble

Romantic manipulation is sneaky, and it can creep into a relationships without either person fully realizing it. We have all heard those phrases that sound sweet or caring but leaves a bitter aftertaste, making us second-guess our feelings.

Manipulative partners often have a way with words, twisting them to control or belittle. So, are you curious to know the signs of romantic manipulation, and the things manipulative partners say?

Whether you’re navigating your own love life, or just looking out for your friends, this article will help you spot the subtle signs of emotional trickery. So, are you ready to dive in?

Related:



Up Next

Are Narcissists Born Or Made? Let’s Settle The Debate Once And For All

Are Narcissists Born Or Made? Important Things To Know

Are narcissists born or made? Delve into the age-old debate as we explore whether nature or nurture shapes this complex personality trait. Uncover the secrets behind pathological narcissism!

Narcissists can be hard to empathize with, but research on inherited narcissism shows they didn’t choose to be that way; they bear scars from childhood.

Traditionally, childrearing, particularly by the mother, was considered the cause of narcissism. In recent years, more research and twin studies have also looked at genetic factors.



Up Next

8 Major Reasons You’re Attracted to Narcissists and How to Break the Cycle

Attracted to Narcissists? Here Are Revealing Reasons Why

How many time have you found yourself irresistibly drawn to someone who seemed perfect at first but turned out to be a self-absorbed narcissist? Well, you’re not alone. There are a surprising number of us who keep getting pulled into the orbit of these charismatic, but toxic individuals. But why are we attracted to narcissists?

Whether it’s their initial charm, their confidence, or something deeper within you, the reasons you are attracted to narcissists are as fascinating, as they are frustrating.

Today, we are going to answer the age-old question “why do I attract narcissists?”, find out more about why this keeps on happening and also talk about how to stop attracting narcissists.