Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a deep-seated need for praise and attention, and a lack of empathy for others.

“Covert narcissism”, or otherwise known as shy, vulnerable, or secret narcissism, is a subtype of narcissism that is often harder to spot because of its less pronounced features and behaviors.

People who are “secret narcissists” are not as outwardly arrogant, entitled, or self-centered as other narcissists, and instead of being charming and manipulative, they may be more anxious, reserved, and sensitive.

Understanding these signs can help identify covert narcissists and navigate interactions with them more effectively, as their behavior may still have a significant impact on relationships and dynamics. Here are a few signs of a covert narcissist.

DISCLAIMER: The video is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose anyone. This video is not made to attack anyone who may display these signs or anyone diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder, but rather to understand them and bring more awareness to the topic!

Writer: Chloe Avenasa
Script Editor: Rida Batool
Script Manager: Kelly Soong
Voice: Amanda Silvera (www.youtube.com/amandasilvera)
Animator: AwesomeKickArt IG:awesomekickart)
YouTube Manager: Cindy Cheong

References:

Kaufman, Scott B. “23 Signs You’re Secretly a Narcissist Masquerading as a Sensitive Introvert”. Scientific American. (2013)
Gabbard, Glen O. “Two Subtypes of Narcissistic Personality Disorder”. Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic. (2009)
Vaknin, Sam. “The Inverted (Covert) Narcissist Codependent”. Narcissus Publications. (2014)
Dickinson, Kelly A., Aaron L. Pincus. “Interpersonal Analysis of Grandiose and Vulnerable Narcissism”. Journal of Personality Disorders. (2003)
Bursten, Ben. “Some Narcissistic Personality Types”. The International Journal of Psychoanalysis. (2013)
Johnson, Stephen. “Humanizing the Narcissistic Style”. W. W. Norton & Company. (2017)