Eli5 what is the difference between self-centered and narcissistic?
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A self-centered person cares about themselves more than others, to an abnormal extent.
A narcissist has a grandiose self-image, needs constant affirmation of their greatness, and lacks empathy for others.
There is not necessarily any overlap. A narcissist can sincerely care about other people, while lacking the ability to really understand a situation from that person’s point of view. Many narcissists repeat cycles where they deeply offend those closest to them, and then work hard to make amends.
A self-centered person may not think very highly of themselves, may not need any attention from others at all, and may understand other people’s perspective just fine, but simply doesn’t much care what happens to them.
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