Introducing the Narcissism Spectrum

Some experts believe that one in six people are narcissists ?? which means that you will probably personally know several - at work, in your family, in your social circle.

Certain sectors and job roles tend to attract narcissistic personalities more than others, typically those that offer power, status, and visibility.

Here are some of the key areas where narcissists are often found:

1. Corporate Leadership: High-level positions such as CEOs, directors, or other executive roles are appealing due to the power and authority they wield. Narcissists are drawn to these positions as they provide a platform to influence others and receive admiration.

2. Politics: The political arena can be attractive to narcissists because of the visibility, power, and ability to shape and control public policy and perception.

3. Media and Entertainment: Roles in television, film, and digital media that offer fame and attention are highly attractive to individuals with narcissistic traits. This includes being in front of the camera as presenters, actors, or influencers. Recent research indicates that reality TV participants comprise the highest percentage of narcissists, out of all the media.

4. Legal Profession: High-stakes areas like litigation, where there is a clear winner and loser, can be particularly appealing. The adversarial nature of many legal jobs can attract those who thrive on conflict and competition.

5. Medicine: Particularly in high-status specialties like surgery, where there is a direct impact on human lives and the potential for a 'god complex.'

6. Academia: Especially in higher echelons such as tenured professors or department heads, where one can exert influence over the direction of academic discourse and the careers of others.

7. Sales and Marketing: These roles, especially at higher levels, can be attractive due to the potential for significant financial gain and the direct results seen from personal efforts.

Narcissism, a term that often surfaces in discussions about challenging relationships, actually encompasses a spectrum of traits and behaviours.?

Researchers have identified up to 14 (yes, 14!) 'subtypes' of narcissist, but there are usually overlaps between the clusters of traits so today we're going to narrow our focus to just a few.

Among these categories, three key ‘unhealthy’ and harmful types stand out:

Covert (sometimes referred to as 'vulnerable')

Overt (also known as 'grandiose')

Malignant.

Let's look at what sets each apart and how they might manifest in everyday interactions.

1. ?? Covert Narcissism (Vulnerable):

Often harder to identify, covert narcissists may present themselves as victims or misunderstood. They love a pity party and use their perceived vulnerabilities to manipulate or garner sympathy.

Their actions often involve passive-aggressiveness or undermining achievements of others and may only be recognised by a small number of people in their community.

2. ?? Overt Narcissism (Grandiose):

This is what many of us think of when we hear "narcissist." Overt narcissists are all about grandiosity, entitlement, and a need for admiration.

They're the ones who loudly proclaim their achievements, usually belittling others in the process.

3. ?? Malignant Narcissism:

This type combines aspects of narcissism with antisocial behaviour, aggression, and even sadism. They are the most dangerous out of all the categories.

Malignant narcissists might engage in deliberate cruelty or manipulation and appear to have no boundaries when seeking revenge or retribution.

Remember that all these ‘types’ are on a spectrum so some traits may be more extreme than others.

We also find overlaps between types.

Once you know the patterns to expect you can better plan how you deal with the person.

Out of curiosity, why not take five minutes to consider all the people in your life you find ‘difficult’? Could they fit into any of the above categories? How many can you identify?

In my next newsletter I'll share some tips on how to communicate effectively with each type, whether in your professional or personal life.

In the meantime look out for some upcoming free events where we'll be talking about those communication difficulties - click on my bell to make sure you get notifications ??

You can also click on the link under my profile to grab your free copy of my e-book ?? "A-Z of Narcissism (and Toxic Relationships)".

If you'd like an informal chat about a toxic relationship or emotional trauma that you feel is holding you back as a leader or entrepreneur, DM me and we'll get that booked in ??