Why Everyone Thinks Narcissism Is Overused—And Why They're Actually Right

Narcissism isn’t just self-absorption: it’s a spectrum ranging from healthy confidence to destructive personality disorder. A certain level of narcissism can foster resilience and ambition, but when it tips into manipulation, lack of empathy, and control, it becomes harmful. On the milder end, trait narcissism might show up as competitiveness or a need for admiration. Further along the spectrum, maladaptive narcissism begins to erode relationships through emotional detachment, hypersensitivity to criticism, and controlling behaviors. At the extreme, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and malignant narcissism involve chronic exploitation, emotional abuse, and even sadistic tendencies. Understanding where someone falls on this spectrum can help you identify red flags, set healthy boundaries, and reclaim your emotional safety.