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Narcissism in Relationships: How to Use a Narcissism Test to Assess Your Partner

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Written by Talked Team

11 May, 2023

It can be difficult to navigate the complicated dynamics of relationships; this difficulty only increases when one partner demonstrates narcissistic qualities. Understanding how to assess your partner using a narcissism test will give you insightful information about their personality and assist you in making decisions about your relationship.

We explore in this article what narcissism looks like in relationships and show you how to assess your partner using a narcissism test.

Understanding narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition often characterised by an inflated sense of self-worth, an intense craving for admiration, and a deficiency in empathy for others.

Individuals with NPD often engage in deceitful behaviours, exhibit an entitlement mentality, and obsess over fantasies of attractiveness, achievement, and influence. People with NPD frequently are preoccupied with their own illusions of beauty, success and power.

Does your Partner Show Narcissistic Behaviour?

The first step in resolving potential relationship issues can be to spot narcissistic qualities in a partner. Typical symptoms include:

  1. Excessive Need for Praise: Narcissists typically seek praise from others and long for their own approval. This need for praise can take many forms.

  2. Lack of Empathy: Narcissism can be identified in others through their limited capacity for empathy, which makes it challenging for them to comprehend or empathise with the feelings of others.

  3. Manipulative behaviour or "guilt tripping: Narcissistic partners may use guilt, blame, or charm to get their way. These narcissistic spouses may use these behaviours in order to dominate or control others through manipulation or "guilt tripping".

Narcissism Test Review

A narcissism test is a technique used to evaluate a person's level of narcissistic tendencies, both in terms of their presence and severity. These tests may include:

  1. Self-Report Questionnaires: Tools like the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI) can be used to determine a person's level of narcissism based on their responses.

  2. Expert Review: A mental health professional, like a counsellor or psychologist, can conduct a more comprehensive evaluation, considering various aspects of your partner's personality and behaviour.

How to Assess Your Partner's Narcissism Using a Narcissism Test

If you suspect your partner displays narcissistic traits, you can consider using the following tests to assess whether further action is needed:

  1. Reflecting on their behaviour: Take a moment to think about your partner's behaviour, both during your relationship together and with their friends. Note any alarming patterns or traits that you identify as it will help you highlight any potential red flags.

  2. Promote Open Communication: Talk openly and non-confrontationally with your partner about your worries. It is important to express your wish to learn more about their character and personality and improve your relationship.

  3. Seeking expert help: If your partner is receptive, consider seeking a mental health expert to administer a narcissism test and offer relationship management advice.

How to Interpret Narcissism Test Results

When receiving the results of a narcissism test, it's crucial to remember that these tests are only tools to help identify behavioural patterns and not final diagnoses. A professional evaluation can offer more thorough explanations and personalised recommendations for resolving any issues.

Challenges of a Narcissistic Partner in a Relationship

When you are in a relationship with a narcissist, a number of difficulities can arise. It is important to be able to understand and identify whether these issues are impacting your relationship. These issues can include:

  1. emotional control and manipulation

  2. feeling unloved or underappreciated

  3. sustaining an equitable and balanced collaboration is difficult.

  4. frequently being criticised or blamed

Relationship Management Techniques for Narcissistic People

Relationship Management Techniques for Narcissistic People

If you decide to stay in a relationship with a narcissistic partner, consider using these techniques to help manage your partner's narcissistic behaviour:

  • Set Clear Boundaries: Be clear with your partner about your boundaries. Set the requirements, restrictions, and expectations of their behaviour and be steadfast in maintaining these boundaries.

  • Prioritise Self-Care: Make your mental, emotional, and physical health a priority by engaging in activities that support them.

  • Consider Couples counselling: Couples counselling with an expert in narcissistic relationships can offer helpful support and direction in navigating the particular difficulties of your relationship.

Choosing Whether to Keep the Relationship or End It

In the end, the choice of whether to stay in a relationship with a narcissistic spouse or quit it depends entirely on your individual wants, requirements, and well-being. Think about how your partner's actions affect your overall happiness and mental health, and speak with a mental health expert to get more information and assistance.

Our Concluding Thoughts on Managing Narcissism in Relationships

Evaluating a partner's narcissism can be a daunting task, yet employing a narcissism test can reveal crucial insights into their personality and actions. You may decide how your relationship will develop by spotting potential warning signs, having an honest conversation, and getting professional advice. Prioritising your well-being and adopting strategies to cope with the challenges of a narcissistic relationship are essential, whether you decide to maintain or terminate the relationship.

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