ADHD and narcissism: 5 differences

ADHD and narcissism are two different mental health diagnoses, but in some cases the behaviors can appear similar. However, there are different causes for these behaviors.

In this article, we want to explain what narcissistic personality disorder is, but most importantly, we want to compare it to ADHD to highlight possible connections or differences. The characteristics of narcissism include a lack of empathy, arrogance, self-centeredness and arrogance. However, these can be common in adolescence and do not necessarily mean the future development of narcissistic personality disorder. The symptoms of NPS, according to the DSM-5 mentioned above, are:

1. How does ADHD manifest itself?

   People with ADHD experience the disorder differently. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), ADHD is divided into three types:

   . . .

   ADHD with predominantly inattentive type:	Characterized by difficulty concentrating, easy distractibility, and possible memory problems that may lead to loss of items or inability to finish tasks
   ADHD with predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type:	Includes poor impulse control and hyperactivity. Includes constant restlessness, impatience, inability to sit or stay still and excessive talkativeness. Inattention is not a dominant symptom in this type of ADHD
   ADHD with combined type:	May include symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity

   For a more detailed explanation of the topic, the GAM Medical website offers a detailed explanation of the symptoms of ADHD.

   What are the causes of the two disorders? Let’s take a look at them!
   
   

   Differences in the causes of ADHD and narcissism

   There are not many studies on the similarities and differences in the causes of the two conditions, but previous research has shown that there are differences between ADHD and NPS in terms of heredity. It has been shown that ADHD may have a stronger genetic component. A 2016 study showed that 51% of fathers and 41.3% of mothers of children with ADHD had the same condition. Furthermore, psychosocial factors such as strict parenting styles could contribute to the symptoms of ADHD.

   In contrast, research on narcissistic personality disorder suggests that narcissistic traits may be fostered by overvaluation and excessive praise in childhood. A 2020 study on parenting styles and abuse also suggests that overprotection, overvaluation and parental indulgence may be important contributing factors in young people with narcissistic traits.

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