Narcissists often exhibit an inflated sense of self-importance and believe they are superior to others. They may require excessive admiration, lack empathy for others, and have a sense of entitlement. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a clinical diagnosis for individuals whose narcissistic traits significantly impair their functioning and relationships.
Psychopath: A psychopath is an individual who displays a range of personality traits characterized by a lack of empathy, remorse, and conscience. Psychopaths tend to be manipulative, deceptive, and charming, using others for their own gain without guilt or regard for the consequences of their actions. Psychopathy is often associated with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), a clinical diagnosis for individuals whose psychopathic traits cause significant distress and impairment in their daily lives.
It's important to note that both "narcissist" and "psychopath" are used in everyday language to describe certain personality traits, but they are also clinical terms used by mental health professionals to diagnose and treat specific personality disorders. These disorders have specific diagnostic criteria, and a qualified mental health professional should make an accurate diagnosis based on a comprehensive assessment of an individual's behavior and psychological functioning. Using these terms casually without a proper understanding of their clinical significance may perpetuate misconceptions and stigmatize individuals with mental health challenges.