Narcissism and ADHD
When Narcissism meets ADHD Client Handout
The term narcissism is being thrown around, and there is lots of it. But it’s also being misunderstood and misapplied. Many other conditions share similarities with narcissistic traits I have created some helpful comparisons.
Dealing with ADHD and narcissistic behaviors requires mutual goodwill and understanding from all parties involved recognizing that these conditions stem from underlying factors. It takes time to change behaviours, and it may not be realistic to expect immediate changes that are related to being neuroatypical. Intention matters.
ADHD Traits:
It’s important to note that we manage these traits with support, rather than erase them. ADHD is not neurotypical and is not the same as disorders of mood and perception. Resources include behaviour guides, medications, exercise, emotional support, etc.
ADHD traits are known to be more severe with increased stress levels.
1. Impulsivity:
Difficulty regulating impulses, acting without thinking.
2. Inattention:
Struggles to focus on tasks, easily distracted.
3. Hyperactivity:
Restlessness, difficulty staying still or seated.
4. Forgetfulness:
Frequently forgets details, appointments, or responsibilities.
5. Difficulty with Time Management:
Struggles to manage time effectively, leading to missed deadlines.
6. Poor Organization:
Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
7. Procrastination:
Tendency to delay tasks or leave them incomplete.
8. Lack of Focus:
Easily loses focus and may struggle to complete tasks.
9. Difficulty Following Instructions:
Challenges in following through on instructions or completing tasks.
10. Impaired Working Memory:
Difficulty holding and manipulating information in mind.
When Narcissism meets ADHD Client Handout
11. Object Blindness:
May struggle to notice or remember everyday objects, leading to disorganization and forgetfulness.
Narcissism Traits:
1. Grandiosity:
Exaggerated sense of self-importance.
2. Need for Admiration:
Constantly seeks admiration and validation.
3. Lack of Empathy:
Difficulty understanding or caring about others' feelings.
4. Sense of Entitlement:
Belief in special privileges and entitlement.
5. Exploitative Behavior:
Takes advantage of others to achieve personal goals.
6. Envy and Jealousy:
Experiences envy of others' success and often displays jealousy.
7. Arrogance:
Displays haughty or arrogant behavior.
8. Manipulation:
Uses manipulation to achieve personal gain.
9. Difficulty Handling Criticism:
Reacts poorly to criticism, becomes defensive.
10. Preoccupation with Fantasies of Unlimited Success: Fantasizes about unlimited success, power, brilliance, or ideal love.
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When Narcissism meets ADHD Client Handout
11. Object Blindness:
May overlook or disregard the needs and perspectives of others, focusing primarily on personal desires and goals.
Overlapping Traits: ADHD and Narcissism
1. Impulsivity:
Shared Trait: Both ADHD and narcissism may exhibit impulsive behavior, though the motivations differ.
2. Attention-Seeking Behavior:
Shared Trait: Seeking attention can be present in both ADHD and narcissism, driven by distinct underlying factors.
3. Challenges in Relationships:
Shared Trait: Difficulties in relationships can occur in both conditions, with ADHD stemming from inattention and impulsivity and narcissism from self-centered behavior.
4. Difficulty with Time Management:
Overlap: While ADHD struggles with time management, narcissistic traits may also lead to challenges in prioritizing tasks.
5. Restlessness:
Overlap: Restlessness is a shared trait, manifesting differently in ADHD (hyperactivity) and narcissism (the need for constant stimulation).
6. Object Blindness:
Overlap: Both conditions may exhibit object blindness, but for different reasons—ADHD may result in overlooking objects due to distractibility, while narcissism may involve neglecting the needs and perspectives of others.
Understanding the nuances of these traits is crucial to avoid misconceptions and provide appropriate support for individuals experiencing ADHD or narcissistic traits.
A foundation of goodwill fosters open communication, empathy, and a collaborative effort to navigate the complexities of ADHD and narcissism. It is through goodwill that positive change and support can be cultivated, leading to a more harmonious and fulfilling journey for everyone involved.
