Which PD is characterized by grandiosity and need for admiration but underlying insecurity?

Which PD is characterized by grandiosity and need for admiration but underlying insecurity?

• A. Antisocial PD
• B. Obsessive-Compulsive PD
• C. Narcissistic PD
• D. Avoidant PD

Answer: (C)

This item is testing recognition of narcissistic personality features: grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and an underlying insecurity. People with this pattern often present as self-important and craving praise or special treatment. That outward grandiosity tends to hide fragile self-esteem; criticism can trigger intense shame or anger, leading to defensive reactions. They may seek validation by exploiting others or inflating their own achievements, while genuine empathy for others is limited. In contrast, antisocial personality disorder centers on disregard for others’ rights and a pattern of deceit or harm, not a preoccupation with admiration. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder emphasizes perfectionism, rigidity, and control, not inflated self-importance. Avoidant personality disorder involves social inhibition and fear of rejection due to feelings of inadequacy, rather than a need for admiration paired with hidden insecurity.

This item is testing recognition of narcissistic personality features: grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and an underlying insecurity. People with this pattern often present as self-important and craving praise or special treatment. That outward grandiosity tends to hide fragile self-esteem; criticism can trigger intense shame or anger, leading to defensive reactions. They may seek validation by exploiting others or inflating their own achievements, while genuine empathy for others is limited.

In contrast, antisocial personality disorder centers on disregard for others’ rights and a pattern of deceit or harm, not a preoccupation with admiration. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder emphasizes perfectionism, rigidity, and control, not inflated self-importance. Avoidant personality disorder involves social inhibition and fear of rejection due to feelings of inadequacy, rather than a need for admiration paired with hidden insecurity.