Narcissism is a personality pattern marked by excessive self-focus, a need for admiration, and a relative lack of empathy for others. In its extreme form it constitutes narcissistic personality disorder.

People high in narcissistic traits often present a grandiose self-image, yet that image can be fragile and dependent on external validation. They may react with rage or withdrawal when criticized. Relationships tend to be shallow or exploitative because the other person is valued mainly as a source of admiration or advantage. Subclinical narcissism appears on a continuum in the general population and has been linked to social media behavior, leadership styles, and interpersonal conflict.

Developmental theories point to early experiences of either excessive praise or emotional neglect as possible contributors. Measurement typically relies on self-report inventories, though observer ratings and clinical interviews are also used. Treatment is challenging because the very traits that cause difficulty often reduce the motivation to change.

When self-regard becomes the organizing principle of a personality at the expense of genuine connection, narcissism is the result.