Covert Narcissist, Psychopath Or Both?

The psychopath, often considered the most feared and misunderstood of all personality disorders, strikes a chilling chord in the minds of many. With their cold, calculated demeanour and ruthless manipulations, psychopaths have captivated and horrified us through countless stories, both real and fictional.

Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash

Yet, the dark complexities of the psychopathic mind can become even more tangled when psychopathy co-exists with another insidious personality disorder: covert narcissism. This unholy alliance of traits presents a potent and dangerous mix, creating an individual who not only lacks empathy and remorse but also expertly hides behind a carefully constructed facade, making it even more challenging to identify and navigate their treacherous ways.

Narcissism and psychopathy can co-occur, making it challenging to differentiate between these two conditions in certain individuals. This article will focus on one key difference between closet narcissists and psychopaths: their goal orientation. Furthermore, we will explore the signs that may indicate the presence of both narcissism and psychopathy in a covert narcissist.

Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterised by enduring and maladaptive patterns of thought, behaviour, and emotions that deviate significantly from cultural norms. These patterns often…