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Which features of narcissistic personality disorder are described in the DSM-5?

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Fresco depicting Narcissus — narcissism Narcissus, wall painting; from the House of Marcus Lucretius Fronto, Pompeii, Italy, 14–62 ce.

The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines narcissistic personality disorder through specific personality traits and significant impairments in functioning.

Key features described in the DSM-5 include:

Grandiosity: An inflated self-image and a tendency to view oneself as exceptional.
Attention-seeking: A persistent need to be the focus of others' attention.
Impaired Empathy: A reduced ability or willingness to recognize and identify with the feelings and needs of others.
Interpersonal Regulation: A reliance on others to regulate self-esteem, often resulting in superficial relationships.

These qualities are considered relatively stable over time and are not attributed to medical conditions, substance use, or developmental stages. Individuals with this disorder are preoccupied with maintaining positive self-concepts and often manipulate others to solicit admiration. Unlike those with antisocial personality disorders, narcissists typically lack the impulsivity, aggression, and habitual deceitfulness associated with that condition, focusing instead on the pursuit of external validation and envy from others.12