ADHD and narcissism: 5 differences

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

In this article, we want to explain what narcissistic personality disorder is, but above all, we want to compare it with ADHD to highlight possible connections or differences. If you think you have either disorder or are interested in the topic, this article is for you!

What is narcissism?

Narcissism, or narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), is a personality disorder characterized by an inflated self-image, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. The main characteristics of narcissism include a distorted self-perception and an inflated sense of self-worth compared to others. People with NPD often demand attention and admiration and can appear manipulative and arrogant. This can lead to difficulties in forming deeper relationships and dealing with criticism. Narcissism is a complex disorder that can have a significant impact on an individual’s life, including difficulties in professional and social life.

Differences and similarities between ADHD and narcissism (NPS):

At first glance, a person with narcissistic personality disorder may behave similarly to a person with ADHD, but for different reasons.

• A person with ADHD may have difficulty concentrating, interacting with others, and working in an organized manner. This may be due to a deficit in executive function. As a result, they may not be able to concentrate during a conversation, interrupt others, or interfere without malicious intent or without being aware of the effects of these behaviors.
• A person with narcissism (NPS) has interpersonal difficulties because they often demand attention and admiration from others and show little empathy or willingness to validate or acknowledge the emotions of others.

People with ADHD may appear egocentric in conversations because they have difficulty concentrating, while people with NPS may act egocentrically because the symptoms of the disorder include an exaggerated self-image and disregard for others.

However, it is important to emphasize that neither ADHD nor NPS is a personal choice, but both conditions must be treated appropriately.

Symptomatic differences between ADHD and narcissism

We have emphasized that the similarities that can be observed between the two disorders actually have different causes. So let’s take a look at what distinguishes attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) from narcissistic personality disorder (NPD).

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is often diagnosed in childhood and whose symptoms typically persist into adulthood. Narcissistic traits, on the other hand, can appear during adolescence, but NPS is a personality disorder that is not usually diagnosed before the age of 18.

Both conditions can influence how you view yourself, others, and the world in general. However, the symptoms tend to be different for each condition.

How can we recognize narcissistic personality disorder?

The characteristics of narcissism include a lack of empathy, arrogance, egocentricity, and conceit. However, these can be common in adolescence and do not necessarily mean that a narcissistic personality disorder will develop in the future. The symptoms of NPD, according to the DSM-5 mentioned above, are:

• An exaggerated sense of personal importance;
• A constant preoccupation with success, power, or beauty;
• A feeling of superiority over others and attempts to associate with others who are considered “special”;
• The expectation of admiration, attention, and constant praise;
• A persistent feeling that you are entitled to everything;
• A tendency to use manipulative tactics to gain personal advantage;
• Low empathy, leading to an unwillingness or inability to recognize the experiences, emotions, and needs of others;
• Envy and jealousy towards others and the conviction that this is justified and mutual;
• Displaying arrogant, conceited, and haughty attitudes;
• Scientists say that these symptoms do not all occur at the same time, but become apparent in different situations and over time.
  
  

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:

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 these two disorders? Let’s take a look!

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. ADHD has been shown to 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 may contribute to the symptoms of ADHD.

In contrast, research on narcissistic personality disorder suggests that narcissistic traits may be promoted by excessive evaluation and praise during childhood. A 2020 study on parenting styles and abuse also shows that excessive protection, excessive evaluation, and indulgence by parents may be important contributing factors in young people with narcissistic traits.

Is a lack of empathy a common feature of ADHD and narcissism?

A low or complete lack of empathy is a symptom of narcissistic personality disorder, whereas it is not a characteristic of ADHD.

A narcissistic person may be capable of developing cognitive empathy, i.e., the ability to identify the emotional states of others. However, their ability to feel emotional and compassionate empathy (the ability not only to feel what others feel, but also to respond appropriately to their needs) may be questionable.

Some evidence suggests that people with ADHD may also sometimes have difficulties with empathy. A recent study found that people with ADHD scored significantly lower on cognitive empathy and understanding the perspectives of others. However, these results did not indicate a disadvantage in terms of emotional empathy for people with ADHD.

This shows that some aspects of disorders can vary greatly from person to person and over time.

So if you think you have symptoms of ADHD or narcissistic personality disorder, it is important to consult professionals who can diagnose you and then help you live in harmony with these conditions. GAM Medical can help you! We are an online clinic specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in adults.

Contact the ADHD experts at GAM Medical for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment!