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October 15, 2025 • 65 mins

KEYWORDS

Narcissistic Personality Disorder, NPD, psychology, mental health, narcissism, DSM-5, clinical psychology, interpersonal relationships, neuroscience, core beliefs, neuropsychology


TAKEAWAYS

NPD is often misunderstood in popular culture.

It is characterized by grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy.

Understanding NPD requires a nuanced appreciation of its clinical presentation.

NPD is classified under cluster B personality disorders in the DSM-5.

The symptoms of NPD must be persistent and cause significant distress.

There is a critical distinction between narcissistic traits and NPD.

Core beliefs of individuals with NPD often include feelings of superiority and unlovability.

NPD individuals often struggle with interpersonal relationships due to their lack of empathy.

Research suggests a genetic component to NPD, with heritability around 50%.

Neuroscience is beginning to reveal structural differences in the brains of individuals with NPD.


SUMMARY

In this comprehensive episode of the Psych Studio Podcast, Dr. Tom Kiely delves into Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), exploring its clinical classification, historical context, core beliefs, and interpersonal challenges. The discussion highlights the distinction between narcissistic traits and the full-blown disorder, emphasizing the importance of understanding NPD for better mental health and relationships. The episode also touches on the neuroscience behind NPD, revealing structural differences in the brains of individuals with the disorder. Overall, this episode serves as a deep dive into the complexities of NPD, aiming to foster compassion and understanding.


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