Narcissism, or self-absorption, is a behavior pattern where an individual places excessive emphasis on their self-importance, having a sense of entitlement, and showing a lack of empathy and consideration for others.
Narcissistic behavior, often regarded as a personality disorder in adults, can start at a very young age in children. Parents may sometimes be unaware of the narcissistic behaviors they see in their children and may take them for granted, not understanding the impact of these tendencies on their child’s growth and development.
Narcissism in children can manifest when they constantly expect to be the center of attention, demonstrate selfish or immature behavior, or display an exaggerated sense of self-importance.
While these behaviors are normal and to be expected at certain stages of a child’s development, they become problematic when they are habitual or reach an extreme level.
With that said, let’s discuss 20 narcissistic behaviors in children and how you can deal with each of them.
20 Narcissistic Behaviors in Kids and How to Deal With Them
1. Exhibiting an Exaggerated Sense of Importance
Children with narcissistic behavior often have an exaggerated sense of their importance and feelings of entitlement, expecting special privileges at home, in school, and with their friends.
Response Tip: Reward your child when they behave in ways that show they earn respect, rather than just expecting it.
Related; 15 Things Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers Do
2. Constant Attention-Seeking Behavior
Children who constantly seek the center of attention in every group, gathering, or social setting may exhibit narcissistic behavior. Such children are often interrupting others to take the stage, speak up, or act outrageously.
Response Tip: Set appropriate limits when your child acts in ways to attract attention, and clearly show that such behavior is not acceptable.
3. Lack of Empathy
Children with narcissistic behavior tend to show little or no empathy or concern for the feelings of others, often focused solely on their own needs and desires.
Response Tip: Teach your child empathy by being a good role model and acting the way you want them to behave.
Related: 35 Signs of a Narcissistic Mother
4. Hyper-reactive to Criticism
Children with narcissistic behavior, having an inflated ego and being self-centered, tend to overreact when they are criticized, corrected, reprimanded, or not praised.
Response Tip: Deliver criticism or negative feedback in a constructive manner that won’t hurt your child’s feelings.
5. Sense of Entitlement
Children with narcissistic behavior often act entitled, showing little appreciation or respect for the rights of others.
Response Tip: Show appreciation when your child behaves in a way that reflects respect for others.
6. Manipulative Behavior
Children with narcissistic tendencies often exhibit manipulative behavior, such as using their peers, friends, parents, and teachers to satisfy their own needs.
Response Tip: Set firm but calm boundaries whenever you notice manipulative behavior from your child.
7. Refusing to Take Responsibility for Their Behavior
Children with narcissistic behavior often shift the blame or refuse to take responsibility for their actions, misbehavior, or mistakes.
Response Tip: Teach your child to take responsibility for their actions by creating a feedback system that provides clear messages about their behavior.
Related: Halloween Party Ideas for Kids
8. Obsession with Their Looks
Children with narcissistic tendencies are often preoccupied with their physical appearance and seek attention for their looks.
Response Tip: Help your child understand that true beauty comes from within. Teach them that people’s worth should be based on their kindness, intelligence, and friendliness.
9. Lack of Genuine Friendships
Children with narcissistic behavior may have few or no genuine friendships, often only connecting with others for personal gain.
Response Tip: Teach your child that people are the most important resource, and they should be valued, respected, and cherished.
10. Expecting Praise for Simply Existing
Children with narcissistic behavior often expect their parents to lavish them with praise simply for doing their jobs, going to school, or finishing an activity.
Response Tip: Provide positive feedback only when your child has shown exceptional effort or results—not for simply existing.
11. Inability to Share
Children with narcissistic behavior find it difficult or refuse to share with their friends, siblings, or classmates.
Response Tip: Teach your child how to share and reward them when they do.
12. Disrespectful to Authority
Children with narcissistic tendencies often lack respect for authority.
Response Tip: Teach your child respect by setting clear rules on what to do and what not to do. Show the importance of being respectful by following the rules yourself.
13. Exaggerated Sense of Their Abilities
Children with narcissistic tendencies often exaggerate or lie about their skills, abilities, and capabilities, believing they are superior to others.
Response Tip: Teach your child to be realistic about their strengths and weaknesses. Give them opportunities to learn and actively participate in activities where they can use their abilities.
14. Refusal to Compromise
Children with narcissistic behavior generally find it difficult to compromise, feeling that their way is always the best way.
Response Tip: Teach your child the value of compromise and being open to other people’s ideas.
15. Overreacting to Disappointment
Children with narcissistic tendencies often overreact to minor disappointments by whining, sulking, or lashing out.
Response Tip: Teach your child how to regulate their emotions by acknowledging their feelings and showing that emotions are a normal part of life. Help them accept the outcome gracefully.
16. No Room for Other People’s Opinions
Children with narcissistic behavior often don’t see the need to pay attention to what others have to say or listen to their opinions.
Response Tip: Encourage your child to listen to others’ opinions and see the value in considering other viewpoints.
17. Belittling Other People
Children with narcissistic tendencies often belittle, put down, or try to keep themselves above others.
Response Tip: Address this behavior immediately by teaching your child to uplift others and avoid putting people down.
18. Jealousy of Others’ Success
Children with narcissistic tendencies often feel threatened by others’ achievements and may be unhappy for them.
Response Tip: Teach your child to appreciate others’ accomplishments and show them that everyone can succeed in their own way.
19. Expecting Special Privileges
Children with narcissistic tendencies expect to be treated as special or better than others. They want the best of everything, including being first in line or receiving extra privileges.
Response Tip: Set boundaries around special privileges and teach your child to appreciate fairness and equality.
20. Self-Centered Conversations
Children with narcissistic tendencies often dominate conversations, talking mostly about themselves and their achievements.
Response Tip: Teach your child the importance of active listening and taking turns in conversations.
Conclusion
It’s common for children to exhibit narcissistic behavior at one point or another. However, when their behavior becomes habitual or extreme, their self-absorption can negatively impact their social and emotional development.
It’s important to identify these narcissistic traits early on and take steps to guide your child toward healthier behaviors.
By fostering empathy, personal responsibility, and respect for others, you can help your child develop healthier self-esteem, build better relationships, and understand themselves and others more deeply.
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