It's essential to differentiate between individuals who have a genuine psychological diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and those who use the term "narcissist" colloquially to describe people they don't like.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a real psychological diagnosis listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is a widely accepted classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals. NPD is characterized by a pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. People with NPD often have an exaggerated sense of self-importance, require excessive admiration, and have a sense of entitlement. They may have difficulty recognizing or empathizing with others' emotions and are often preoccupied with fantasies of success, power, beauty, or ideal love.
However, it is crucial not to casually label others as narcissists based on behavioral quirks or characteristics we dislike. We must leave diagnosing psychological disorders to qualified mental health professionals who conduct thorough evaluations and assessments.
Sometimes, individuals who repeatedly encounter narcissistic behavior from others might become more aware of it and start using the term "narcissist" in a general sense to describe people who exhibit selfish, self-centered, or manipulative tendencies. It's more of a descriptive term in such cases and not necessarily indicative of the person having NPD.
Being obsessed with narcissism or constantly attributing negative behaviors to others as narcissistic might not necessarily mean someone is a narcissist themselves. However, it could indicate a personal history or experiences with individuals displaying narcissistic traits, which can lead to an increased interest in understanding such behavior.
In summary, while Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a real psychological diagnosis, using the term "narcissist" loosely to describe people we don't like is not a valid or responsible way to diagnose someone with a psychological disorder. It's crucial to seek professional help when dealing with personality or mental health concerns and to avoid making casual judgments about others' mental health based on limited information or personal biases.