{"id":81654,"date":"2022-12-09T04:41:21","date_gmt":"2022-12-09T04:41:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=81654"},"modified":"2026-03-20T05:38:10","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T05:38:10","slug":"grandiose-narcissistic-personality-disorder","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/mental-health\/grandiose-narcissistic-personality-disorder\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Potential Signs of Grandiose Narcissism & Ways to Deal"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\"Couple<\/p>\n

The Internet is full of stories about people who have experienced abuse and distress after dating a narcissistic partner. While narcissism can generally lead to problems in relationships, some forms of narcissism can be worse than others. <\/span><\/p>\n

Grandiose narcissistic personality disorder, in particular, can create toxic patterns in relationships. The behaviors associated with this condition can be quite damaging and even abusive. Below, learn about grandiose narcissism, including signs that you’re in a relationship with one. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>What is grandiose narcissism?<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

When people reference grandiose narcissists, they are talking about a specific form of narcissistic personality disorder. There are two general <\/span>forms of narcissism<\/span><\/a>, of which grandiose narcissism is one.<\/span><\/p>\n

Grandiose narcissist traits include high self-esteem, manipulative tendencies, a high degree of exhibitionism, and self-centeredness. In intimate relationships, grandiose narcissism leads to behaviors like dominating and manipulating others and behaving callously. <\/span><\/p>\n

A grandiose narcissist has an inflated sense of self-importance combined with a big ego. This personality type comes across as quite arrogant, and they are often willing to take advantage of others, including their partners, to get what they want. <\/span><\/p>\n

Ultimately, this leads to hurt feelings and even toxic patterns in relationships. <\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED READING : <\/span>How Dating a Narcissist Changes You: 17 Harmful Possibilities<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

<\/span>Grandiose narcissism vs. vulnerable narcissism<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

Part of understanding “What is a grandiose narcissist?” is knowing the difference between grandiose vs. vulnerable narcissism. While grandiose narcissists are outwardly exhibitionistic, self-centered, and dominating, vulnerable narcissists <\/span>tend to experience<\/span><\/a> anxiety, shame, and feelings of inferiority.<\/span><\/p>\n

In contrast to a grandiose narcissist, a vulnerable narcissist appears quite shy and thin-skinned. They may avoid contact with others, but quietly, they can be angry or aggressive when faced with threats to their ego. <\/span><\/p>\n

Compared to the grandiose narcissist, a vulnerable narcissist is likely to internalize and experience psychological distress in the form of anxiety or depression. <\/span><\/p>\n

Some vulnerable narcissists act out with anger and aggression when they feel slighted. Still, they are more likely to turn inward and experience deep depression and anxiety when others hurt them. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>15 signs of a grandiose narcissistic personality disorder in toxic relationships<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n

So, what are grandiose narcissism symptoms in relationships? In toxic relationships involving individuals with grandiose narcissism, certain signs may be evident. It’s important to note that only a mental health professional can diagnose a personality disorder. <\/span><\/p>\n

However, here are 15 common signs that may suggest the presence of grandiose narcissistic traits in a toxic relationship:<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Superficial charm<\/b><\/h3>\n

One of the primary features of grandiose narcissistic personality disorder is that people with this condition present as incredibly charming. They may appear highly attractive and charming at the beginning of the relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n

In fact, their charm is usually what helps people with a grandiose narcissistic personality disorder to attract a partner. However, as time goes on, the initial charm fades, and the grandiose narcissist will become cold, callous, and even cruel. <\/span><\/p>\n

2. They come across as immature<\/b><\/h3>\n

Research has shown that grandiose narcissistic personality disorder is <\/span>associated with<\/span><\/a> immature defense mechanisms. This means that grandiose narcissists in relationships can come across as quite immature.<\/span><\/p>\n

During arguments, they may demonstrate childlike or even toddler-like behaviors, such as pouting, throwing temper tantrums, or demanding that they have their way. <\/span><\/p>\n

3. Outbursts of anger<\/b><\/h3>\n

One of the grandiose narcissism examples that is quite a common part of grandiose narcissist traits is anger. People who show symptoms of grandiose narcissism are likely to have outbursts of anger in response to perceived slights or disagreements.<\/span><\/p>\n

They are also likely to have <\/span>outbursts of anger<\/span><\/a> disproportionate to the event or trigger that led to the anger. For instance, they may show outbursts of rage in reaction to a minor disagreement. <\/span><\/p>\n

4. Double standards<\/b><\/h3>\n

A relationship with a grandiose narcissist is likely to feel one-sided with <\/span>double standards<\/span><\/a>. They expect you to devote all your time, energy, and attention to them, but they will give little to you in return.<\/span><\/p>\n

They may also expect extreme loyalty and commitment from you, while they give you only breadcrumbs of attention, or they are repeatedly unfaithful. <\/span><\/p>\n

5. Frequent bragging<\/b><\/h3>\n

Grandiose narcissists are known for their frequent bragging. In most social situations, they will take over the conversation and tell everyone about their accomplishments. They may even exaggerate their achievements so long as they remain the center of attention. <\/span><\/p>\n

In a relationship, they will likely remind you how superior they are to you regarding looks, talents, and achievements. They will also be willing to put you down to appear superior. <\/span><\/p>\n

6. Flashiness<\/b><\/h3>\n

People with grandiose narcissistic personality disorder want to have the best of everything. They will come across as extremely flashy, with the best car, clothes, and house. <\/span><\/p>\n

When you’re in a relationship with one, they will likely place their material needs before yours.<\/span><\/p>\n

You might even end up sacrificing your own needs or perhaps going into deep debt to satisfy the material desires of the grandiose narcissist. <\/span><\/p>\n

\"Portrait<\/p>\n

7. Sexual promiscuity<\/b><\/h3>\n

One telltale sign of grandiose narcissism is sexual promiscuity. The grandiose narcissist is likely to have many <\/span>sexual encounters<\/span><\/a>, and they are also at high risk of being unfaithful. They may even go so far as to be sexually manipulative, coercing their partner into sexual activity that makes the partner uncomfortable.<\/span><\/p>\n

People in long-term relationships with sexual narcissists may give in to their partner’s sexual demands to keep the relationship going or to prevent the narcissistic partner from cheating. <\/span><\/p>\n

8. Tendency to blame others<\/b><\/h3>\n

Narcissistic grandiosity is associated with a tendency to blame others for one’s shortcomings. <\/span><\/p>\n

When you’re dating a grandiose narcissist, you’ll find that when you give advice or correct them for some sort of wrongdoing, they will shift the blame onto other people. <\/span><\/p>\n

They will not be able to accept accountability and may even become enraged at you if you point out something they’ve done that offended you. <\/span><\/p>\n

9. Their needs always come first<\/b><\/h3>\n

Selfishness is one of the main grandiose narcissist signs. This means that the grandiose narcissist won’t be particularly concerned about your needs. They can only see things from their point of view, which they perceive to be the most important. <\/span><\/p>\n

10. Lack of empathy<\/b><\/h3>\n

Grandiose narcissists aren’t particularly concerned with the feelings of others because they have a hard time showing empathy. <\/span><\/p>\n

It seems they don’t care about your feelings when hurt or upset. They may even come across as cold and heartless because they don’t identify with your feelings. <\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED READING : <\/span>How to Emotionally Detach From a Narcissist: 17 Healthy Ways<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

11. Need for constant admiration<\/b><\/h3>\n

You might ask, are grandiose narcissists insecure? A person who is grandiose narcissist ultimately believes that they are worthy of constant admiration, and they need it to maintain their self-esteem because they have insecurity. <\/span>Being in a relationship<\/span><\/a> with someone like this means you will be expected to shower them with attention, gifts, and compliments. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you don’t meet the grandiose narcissists’ need for attention (which is difficult to do), they won’t hesitate to go elsewhere to meet their needs. <\/span><\/p>\n

12. Sense of entitlement<\/b><\/h3>\n

Being told “no” or not getting what they want threatens the self-esteem of a grandiose narcissist. A narcissist feels they are entitled to having all of their needs met, and they don’t particularly care who they have to take advantage of to achieve this end. <\/span><\/p>\n

13. Expectation of compliance<\/b><\/h3>\n

In relationships, grandiose narcissists do not view you as a person with unique needs and free will. Instead, they view you as an extension of themselves and expect automatic compliance with their demands. <\/span><\/p>\n

They will likely become quite upset if you question or <\/span>set a boundary<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

14. They’re rigid in their beliefs<\/b><\/h3>\n

A grandiose narcissist views themselves as being superior to others, and as such, they believe that their way of thinking is perfect. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you challenge their beliefs, they will become angry and maintain their way of thinking, even when presented with evidence that it’s flawed. They are likely to become hostile if you challenge their belief system. <\/span><\/p>\n

15. Vindictiveness<\/b><\/h3>\n

If you cross a grandiose narcissist, there will likely be consequences. This personality type is incredibly vindictive; such people feel they deserve revenge when they make mistakes. <\/span><\/p>\n

A partner with grandiose narcissistic personality disorder will likely punish you for hurting them, even if it was minor or unintentional. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>7 ways to deal with grandiose narcissistic personality disorder<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n

If you’re in a relationship with a grandiose narcissist, you must be prepared to <\/span>deal with<\/span><\/a> this mental health condition. After all, a narcissistic personality disorder is a legitimate mental health condition that interferes with a person’s daily functioning.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Woman<\/p>\n

So, if you’re wondering how to deal with a grandiose narcissist, here are some tips for managing a grandiose narcissist:<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Learn about this personality disorder<\/b><\/h3>\n

Understanding the symptoms and side effects of narcissistic personality disorder gives you an idea of what to expect from your partner. Hence, you aren’t as shocked by their behavior. Make an effort to learn about the condition so you are equipped with knowledge. <\/span><\/p>\n

2. Don’t take the behavior personally<\/b><\/h3>\n

The worst thing you can do when in a relationship with a grandiose narcissist is to blame yourself for their behavior. Your partner with grandiose narcissistic personality disorder may blame you for their behavior, but you should not accept blame. Their behavior is a manifestation of their <\/span>personality disorder<\/span><\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n

3. Set boundaries<\/b><\/h3>\n

Being in a relationship with a narcissist can be emotionally and mentally taxing. This means you must set clear boundaries around what behavior you will and will not accept. You may need to disengage from a conversation when your partner is disrespectful. <\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED READING : <\/span>15 Signs of a Histrionic Narcissist in a Relationship<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n

4. Give them praise when warranted<\/b><\/h3>\n

You should not compliment your partner just to feed their ego, but you can maintain harmony by giving praise where it is due. Acknowledging their good ideas, thanking them when they do something kind, or complimenting their good qualities can reinforce good behavior and keep them content. <\/span><\/p>\n

5. Be prepared to leave if needed<\/b><\/h3>\n

You cannot change a person who has grandiose narcissism. You need to be prepared that you might have to <\/span>leave the relationship<\/span><\/a> if it becomes too much to manage. You might have to walk away if your partner becomes abusive and refuses to change toxic behavior.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Seek professional help<\/b><\/h3>\n

Dealing with a grandiose narcissistic personality disorder can be challenging, and seeking the guidance of a mental health professional is crucial. A therapist or counselor experienced in narcissistic personality disorders can provide you with coping strategies and support and help navigate the complexities of the relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Encourage a support network<\/b><\/h3>\n

Maintaining connections with friends, family, or support groups can be essential when dealing with a partner with grandiose narcissism. Having a strong support network can offer emotional assistance, different perspectives, and a sense of community, which is particularly valuable during challenging times in the relationship. <\/span><\/p>\n

Watch this podcast by Lisa Bilyeu, where the guest, Dr. Ramani, a clinical psychologist, explains what secret weapons narcissists use against you:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n