Female narcissism: You can recognize the personality disorder by these 6 signs

Female Narcissism
6 signs that you recognize a narcissist

Self-doubt, perfectionism, modesty – female narcissism often appears completely differently than “male”. We explain why and what it’s all about.

Narcissistic people are self-absorbed, reckless, and extremely selfish—at least, that’s how we imagine them to be. Mostly they seem to us like gigantic show-offs, bad people and energy vampires who use and suck other people dry to boost their own ego. What we (understandably …) often forget: Narcissism is a personality disorder triggered by severe inferiority complexes and a drastic lack of self-esteem. However, this side comes to the fore more clearly in a special form of this disease, which psychologists also refer to as “female narcissism”.

Female narcissism: Here’s what’s behind it

Of course, in principle, both men and women can develop a narcissistic personality disorder, and the causes are the same for both:

While men have these flaws, misprints and insecurities usually women tend to overplay it, for example by boasting about status symbols, mocking others or belittling their fellow human beings through their behavior tending different – for example with an increased striving for recognition and positive feedback. That’s why psychologists distinguish, in part, between feminine and masculine, or conventional narcissism: they label it different symptoms or manifestations of the same problem. These are though typical for the respective gender, but not exclusively reserved for him. This means that there can also be men who develop female narcissism and vice versa.

The psychotherapist Bärbel Wardetzki, among others, has dealt intensively with the typical female way of dealing with narcissism: In her book “Female Narcissism – The Hunger for Recognition” (Kösel), she describes how much women suffer from this disorder – but also how they Break the cycle of low self-esteem and obsession with feedback from others. (By the way, you will also find various tips and methods on how to strengthen your self-esteem and boost your self-confidence!)

How do you recognize a narcissist?

One of the most striking characteristics of female narcissism is – that it is very difficult to recognize and hardly notice it as such! Therefore, theoretically, there can be a narcissist in many women (and men) that you would never suspect: in the stylish colleague, the self-sacrificing friend, the angelic world savior, in you … Or would you have the following characteristics possible signs of narcissistic personality disorder seen?

1. Perfectionism

Narcissists or female narcissists are often pathological perfectionists – because the more “perfect” a person, the more valuable they believe …

2. Strikingly groomed and attractive appearance

Stylish, top styled and always trendy – this is how female narcissists try to gain admiration and attention.

3. Apparently (!) very confident demeanor

Controlled, always prepared as well as possible and a precise manner of expression – in the eyes of a narcissist, a strong appearance is the prerequisite for recognition. And a great facade to hide any insecurities behind it…

4. Extremely high demands

Female narcissists never settle for average, they aim high. Above all, they not only expect perfection from themselves, but also maximum performance.

5. Modesty

Narcissists respond with greater modesty to compliments, especially those related to performance or personality. They attribute success and sympathy primarily to their attractive appearance, so some also have a tendency to imposter syndrome.

6. Error free

Female narcissists never seem to make mistakes—they always have an explanation when they need it or can pin the blame on someone else. The only thing that unfortunately doesn’t get her to shut up her inner critics…

How does a narcissistic woman behave in a relationship?

Female narcissism can also make itself felt in romantic relationships. Partnerships with female narcissists are characterized by strong fluctuations. If the other person seeks closeness or shows interest, those affected withdraw. It is different when they are shown disinterest. Then female narcissists are spurred on to fight for love. In addition, the external perception often does not match the inner life of those affected. If a person presents themselves as strong and confident, but is actually full of self-doubt on the inside, it can strain the relationship and confuse the partner(s).

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Bridget