There are two kinds of people who obsess over themselves. One is self- centered individuals and others are narcissists. There is a fine line of difference between the two.
While all narcissists are self-centered, all self- centered people are not narcissists. Confused? They both work around a similar behavioral pattern; however, narcissism is an extreme version of self-absorption. The former craves for attention; the latter feels superior to others.
A major difference between the two personalities lies in how they are classified. For a layperson, narcissism and self-absorption lie in the same category. However, it is important to note that while self-absorption is a personality type, narcissism is a personality disorder.
The most confusing aspect of the two personalities is that both are indulged in self-absorption. However, there is a difference in the degree of self- occupation. A narcissistic person may take the obsession with the self to the highest of levels as compared to a self-centered person.
Attention seeking is a jointly held behavioral attribute by the two personalities. However, the difference lies in the fact that a selfish person only feels rewarded when he gets others to notice him, whereas a narcissist makes himself visible by putting others down.
A little difference between the two personalities can be observed while they are in a conversation. Self-centric person craves for attention and simply ends up feeling rejected when the same does not happen. However, a narcissist does not miss a chance to bring a conversation back to his accolades and accomplishments.
It is a well-found trait among selfish people to defend themselves in the case of an attack on their image. A narcissist, on the other hand, besides adopting the defense mechanisms, may even get hostile to protect himself.
Another stark difference between narcissists and self-centric is how they appear in public. A narcissistic person is extremely high on the manipulation side and can fake a suitable persona for the masses. The self-centric person, on the other hand, cries for attention and never misses a chance to get people to notice him.
Despite having a high level of confidence, a self-obsessed person may still be aware of his inefficiencies deep inside. A narcissist, on the other hand, has no such insecurities and genuinely believes himself to be good at everything.
It is quite likely that self-centered person may accept and admit the fact that he is selfish. A narcissist, on the other hand, constantly lives in a state of denial and may never be open to the idea of having a personality disorder.
Despite the selfish behavior, a self-centric person may have certain limits and principles in life. A narcissistic person is devoid of any such morality. As against the self-centric people, narcissistic people will do anything from cheating to manipulating, to get their way.
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