Yes, there is a personality disorder that shares some similarities with narcissism but involves the ability to empathize and may not fully meet the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). This disorder is called "Borderline Personality Disorder" (BPD).
People with Borderline Personality Disorder often display intense and unstable emotions, have difficulties with self-identity, and struggle with maintaining stable and healthy relationships. Some individuals with BPD may exhibit self-absorbed behaviors, a strong need for attention, and a tendency to engage in manipulative or abusive tactics, similar to some aspects of narcissism.
However, the key distinction between BPD and NPD lies in the individual's capacity for empathy. People with BPD can experience intense emotional empathy, meaning they are highly attuned to the emotions of others and can often "absorb" the feelings of those around them. This can lead to difficulty in regulating their own emotions, resulting in impulsive or self-destructive behaviors as a way to cope with overwhelming feelings.
On the other hand, individuals with NPD typically have deficits in empathy, particularly in emotional empathy, and tend to struggle with recognizing or validating the emotions of others. They may appear more focused on their own needs, desires, and self-aggrandizement.
It's important to note that diagnosing personality disorders can be complex, and a mental health professional should make a formal assessment. Additionally, individuals can exhibit traits from multiple personality disorders or have comorbid conditions, making diagnosis and treatment challenging.
If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional difficulties or relationship issues, it's essential to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. Therapy, particularly dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic therapy, has shown to be effective in treating BPD and helping individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and interpersonal skills.