Often, the terms “sociopath” and “narcissist” are used interchangeably, but they are actually two very different diagnoses. Understanding the difference in the classification of sociopath vs. narcissist becomes especially important if you suspect you’re living with someone with these diagnoses.
At Promises, we offer a variety of services to help people living with personality disorders as well as anyone else who has been impacted by their behavior. Our narcissistic personality disorder treatment program provides the guidance that you and your loved one need. Contact Promises at 844.875.5609 to learn more about the services available to those faced with a personality disorder.
Sociopath vs. Narcissist: Understanding the Difference
To help you comprehend what personality disorder your loved one may have, it’s vital to look closely at each of these two conditions, beginning with sociopathy. A sociopath is someone devoid of remorse and empathy. Another term for this condition is “antisocial personality disorder.”
It’s a disorder that begins in childhood or early adolescence and lasts for the rest of the person’s life. The main sign of sociopathy is a disregard for the rights of others. A sociopath may also:
- Lie for profit or pleasure
- Not following social rules or laws
- Be impulsive
- Be aggressive or irritable
- Display irresponsible behavior at work or school
- Mistreat other people without guilt
A narcissist, on the other hand, is someone who has an unrealistically positive sense of self. They may feel like they are more intelligent, talented, or special than others. People who display some of these tendencies may have narcissistic traits, but if the problem is chronic and pervasive, they might have narcissistic personality disorder.
Signs of narcissistic personality disorder include:
- Sense of entitlement
- Grandiose sense of self
- Lack of empathy
- Constant demand for praise
- Preoccupation with fantasies of power, beauty, or money
- Jealousy of others
Although the two conditions share some similarities, like a lack of empathy, the motivations are different. A sociopath could have a variety of reasons for behaving as they do, but a narcissist will mainly be looking for praise.
Living With a Narcissist
If you suspect that your loved one has a narcissistic personality disorder, learning to live with them can be difficult. There are steps you can take, however, to improve your relationship.
The first thing to consider is establishing boundaries. You need to protect yourself from emotional abuse and manipulation. By letting the person know what behaviors you will and won’t tolerate, you can protect yourself. Of course, this means that if the person crosses that boundary, you must enforce it.
Don’t take their behavior personally. This is easier said than done, but it can impact your own happiness if you assume that you are the problem. Instead, remember that they have a personality disorder and behave the same with everyone.
It’s also helpful to learn to spot manipulative, victim-playing, and gas-lighting behaviors. Once you learn to recognize them, you can call your loved one out on them. This could open the door to more honest communication.
Ideally, the best option is to encourage your loved one to get help at a treatment program designed for people with personality disorders. Even if they don’t take you up on the offer, you should consider speaking with a therapist yourself to get further guidance.
Help Yourself and Your Loved One at Promises
Living with a narcissist will often be challenging, but it can become more manageable if you reach out for help. By relying on therapy sessions as part of narcissistic personality disorder treatment that help you and your loved one communicate better, you can both build a stronger connection.
At Promises, we provide inpatient and outpatient programs for those with mental health conditions and personality disorders. Get the guidance you deserve by calling Promises at 844.875.5609 or using our convenient online contact form.