Narcissistic Personality Disorder in College students

Key things to know What the evidence shows
How common is it? Not established diagnosed NPD
Is it more common among college students? Narcissistic traits extensively studied; diagnosed NPD epidemiology weak
Are college students at higher risk? Younger age associated with NPD; college-specific NPD association NE
How much higher is the risk? Trait meta-analysis extensive but not NPD
How often can it be missed? High
Does it show up differently among college students? Yes developmentally
How might it look different? Status comparison, achievement, social validation and identity development may make narcissistic traits visible without indicating NPD
What commonly occurs alongside it? Depression/anxiety; substance use
What can it be confused with? Normal narcissistic traits; bipolar disorder; BPD
Common screening tool NPI - Narcissistic Personality Inventory
Separate screening tool for college students None
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