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How Can I Tell if I’m a Narcissist?

A Brief Questionnaire for Those Interested in Knowing

In this article, we’ve created a detailed questionnaire to help individuals identify narcissistic traits. This questionnaire aims to provide insight, rather than serve as a definitive diagnosis. It is structured based on commonly recognized traits of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) from the DSM-5, as well as subclinical narcissism traits often found in the general population.

Below is a questionnaire divided into sections that assess different aspects of narcissistic tendencies, including self-perception, interpersonal relationships, and behaviors.

Narcissism Insight Questionnaire

For each statement below, choose the response that best describes your feelings or behaviors. Responses should be honest and scored on a scale from 1 to 5:

1 = Strongly Disagree
2 = Disagree
3 = Neutral
4 = Agree
5 = Strongly Agree

Write down the number for each response, and total your score at the end of the questionnaire.

Section 1: Self-Perception

  1. I often feel I am more special or unique than most people.
  2. I have a strong desire to be recognized and admired for my achievements.
  3. I believe I deserve special treatment due to my talents and accomplishments.
  4. I often compare myself to others and feel superior.
  5. I have a sense of entitlement that others may not understand.

Section 2: Interpersonal Relationships

  1. I find it hard to empathize with the feelings and needs of others.
  2. I often feel frustrated when people don’t acknowledge my contributions or ideas.
  3. I tend to manipulate situations to achieve my own goals.
  4. I expect others to respect and prioritize my needs over theirs.
  5. I frequently feel misunderstood by those around me.

Section 3: Behavior and Reactions

  1. I get upset or defensive when others criticize me, even if the criticism is constructive.
  2. I feel a strong need to control situations and people around me.
  3. I often seek validation from others to feel good about myself.
  4. I am highly competitive and dislike it when others achieve more than I do.
  5. I find it challenging to admit when I am wrong.

Section 4: Emotional Patterns

  1. I often feel envious of others and believe others are envious of me.
  2. I struggle with feelings of insecurity, even though I project confidence.
  3. I tend to focus on my needs, even in emotionally significant relationships.
  4. I find it difficult to handle rejection or failure.
  5. I sometimes exaggerate my accomplishments or downplay others’ achievements.

Scoring and Interpretation

  • 1–40: Low narcissistic tendencies. You likely exhibit empathy, self-awareness, and balanced self-esteem.
  • 41–60: Moderate narcissistic tendencies. You may exhibit some self-centered behaviors, but are likely aware of their impact.
  • 61–80: High narcissistic tendencies. You may have significant traits that could affect your relationships and self-awareness.
  • 81–100: Very high narcissistic tendencies. These behaviors could be problematic and may suggest the need for further exploration with a mental health professional.

Disclaimer

This tool is for self-reflection and not a diagnostic instrument. If you are concerned about your behaviors or emotional well-being, please consult a licensed mental health professional for further guidance.

Below is a reference section that draws on the psychological framework and research studies related to narcissism. While this questionnaire is a synthesis of existing knowledge and tools, the references below represent widely recognized sources and foundational works on narcissistic traits and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).

Disclaimer About References

The questionnaire provided is an educational and self-reflective tool inspired by these sources. While it integrates evidence-based concepts, it is not a substitute for validated clinical assessments like the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) or professional evaluation by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist.

References

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

  • This is the primary source defining the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), including traits related to grandiosity, entitlement, lack of empathy, and interpersonal exploitation.

2. Raskin, R., & Hall, C. S. (1979). A Narcissistic Personality Inventory. Psychological Reports, 45(2), 590.

  • A foundational study introducing the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), a widely used tool for assessing subclinical narcissism.

3. Cain, N. M., Pincus, A. L., & Ansell, E. B. (2008). Narcissism at the crossroads: Phenotypic description of pathological narcissism across clinical theory, social/personality psychology, and psychiatric diagnosis. Clinical Psychology Review, 28(4), 638–656.

  • This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of narcissistic traits, both in clinical and non-clinical populations.

4. Miller, J. D., & Campbell, W. K. (2008). Comparing clinical and social-personality conceptualizations of narcissism. Journal of Personality, 76(3), 449–476.

  • This research compares pathological narcissism with traits seen in the general population, offering insights into the spectrum of narcissism.

5. Pincus, A. L., & Lukowitsky, M. R. (2010). Pathological narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 6(1), 421–446.

  • A detailed exploration of pathological narcissism, its developmental origins, and its implications for mental health.

6. Exline, J. J., Baumeister, R. F., Bushman, B. J., Campbell, W. K., & Finkel, E. J. (2004). Too proud to let go: Narcissistic entitlement as a barrier to forgiveness. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 87(6), 894.

  • This study examines the connection between narcissistic traits, entitlement, and interpersonal conflicts.

7. Twenge, J. M., & Campbell, W. K. (2009). The Narcissism Epidemic: Living in the Age of Entitlement. New York: Free Press.

  • A book discussing cultural trends contributing to an increase in narcissistic traits in modern society.

8. Horowitz, M. J., & Arthur, R. J. (1988). Personality styles and brief psychodynamic psychotherapy. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 44(5), 767–777.

  • This article outlines personality styles, including narcissistic traits, and their relevance in psychotherapy.

9. Emmons, R. A. (1987). Narcissism: Theory and measurement. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 52(1), 11.

  • A study focused on the measurement of narcissistic traits, expanding on Raskin and Hall’s work.

Recovering From Infidelity

If you have experienced infidelity-induced trauma caused by the emotional and sexual betrayal of your spouse, there is hope! If you are a child affected by parental infidelity, there is hope! If you are a spouse who has betrayed your marriage’s trust, love, and fidelity, there is hope! We recommend you get support through professional counseling and therapy, as well as through groups dedicated to supporting you through this traumatic journey. You are not alone, and recovery and healing are possible!

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About CHADIE Foundation

The CHADIE Foundation (Children are Harmed by Adultery, Divorce, Infidelity, and related Emotional trauma) helps spouses, partners, and children who adultery, affairs, and infidelity have negatively impacted. To learn more about CHADIE and how you can help, please email us at support@chadie.org or visit us at CHADIE.org.

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