A person with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) desires various things from others but might find it challenging to admit to these needs openly due to their deeply ingrained sense of superiority and fear of vulnerability. Some of the underlying wants or desires that a person with NPD may have include:
Constant Admiration and Validation: People with NPD crave constant praise and admiration from others to bolster their fragile self-esteem. They may seek compliments, recognition, and approval but won't openly admit their need for validation.
Unwavering Attention: Individuals with NPD often require an excessive amount of attention and prefer to be the center of attention in social settings. They may feel resentful if they are not the focus of discussions or interactions.
Validation of Superiority: Deep down, individuals with NPD yearn for others to acknowledge and recognize their perceived superiority, intelligence, or accomplishments. They want to be seen as exceptional and special.
Control and Power: A person with NPD may seek to control situations and people around them to maintain their sense of dominance and authority. However, they might not openly admit their desire for control as they prefer to maintain the appearance of being powerful effortlessly.
Avoidance of Criticism or Failure: Although people with NPD may present a grandiose image of themselves, they are often hypersensitive to criticism or failure. They desire to avoid any acknowledgment of their flaws or weaknesses.
Being Perceived as Charismatic and Charming: Individuals with NPD often want to be seen as charming and charismatic, drawing others towards them. They may manipulate their image and relationships to maintain this perception.
Unconditional Loyalty: A person with NPD may expect unwavering loyalty from others, even if they don't explicitly express it. They desire people who will consistently reinforce their self-importance and cater to their needs without question.
Avoidance of Abandonment: Underneath the facade of self-confidence, individuals with NPD may fear abandonment and rejection. They may use manipulative tactics to keep others close to avoid facing these fears.
It's important to note that individuals with NPD have complex psychological dynamics, and not all of them will exhibit the same behaviors or desires. Additionally, not all narcissistic traits indicate a full-blown personality disorder. People with NPD often struggle with maintaining healthy relationships due to these underlying wants and fears, and their interactions with others can be challenging and draining.