You may have noticed a change in someone you know. Maybe a partner, parent or colleague who suddenly seems more self-centered, dismissive or focused on their own needs. These are possible traits of a narcissist. But if you’ve never thought of them as a narcissistic person before, you might be hesitant to think of them like one now.
Can someone become a narcissist later in life? The answer is a little complicated. Personality traits can evolve over time. But true narcissistic personality disorder usually develops earlier in life and reflects long-standing patterns of thinking and relating to others.
Read on to learn about the difference between personality traits, life stress and narcissistic personality disorder. We want to help bring clarity and compassion to confusing situations.
What Is narcissism?
Narcissism is often a word that’s used to describe someone who seems self-absorbed or arrogant. But clinically speaking, narcissism exists on a spectrum.
Some degree of self-focus is normal and even healthy. Confidence, ambition and self-worth are important parts of a balanced personality. They can help you have a strong sense of self to go after what you want. Problems arise when those traits become extreme. They can begin to interfere with relationships, empathy and emotional awareness. They could be potential signs of a diagnosable personality disorder.
Narcisstic personality disorder affects up to an estimated 6.2% of the U.S. population. This personality disorder can cause symptoms including:
- An inflated sense of self-importance
- A strong need for admiration or validation
- Difficulty recognizing or caring about other people’s feelings
- A belief that they deserve special treatment
- Sensitivity to criticism
- Relationship challenges related to control or entitlement
Having narcissistic traits isn’t the same as having a personality disorder.
Myths vs. Facts About Narcissism
Misunderstandings about narcissism are common, especially on social media where there’s a lot of misinformation about mental health challenges. Let’s break down a few myths about it.
Myth: People suddenly turn into narcissists
Fact: Personality disorders typically develop earlier in life, though traits may become more noticeable during stressful periods or health concerns.
Myth: Anyone who acts selfish is a narcissist
Fact: Everyone shows self-centered behavior occasionally. Narcissistic personality disorder involves persistent patterns that affect relationships and functioning.
Myth: Narcissists never change
Fact: Change is possible with awareness, support and treatment. Personality patterns can shift over time when someone is willing to explore them.
- Myth: Narcissism always looks like arrogance
Fact: Some people show a pattern that’s sometimes referred to as vulnerable narcissism, which may involve insecurity, hypersensitivity to criticism and emotional withdrawal.
Why a person may seem like a narcissist later in life
Most mental health professionals agree that personality disorders tend to develop in adolescence or early adulthood, not suddenly in midlife or later years. The symptoms tend to manifest around eight years old and become more prevalent during adolescent years. That means someone usually doesn’t “become a narcissist overnight.”
However, behavior can change over time for many reasons.
Here are a few possible reasons someone may seem more narcissistic later in life:
Life stress or major transitions
Big changes like divorce, career loss, illness or financial stress may contribute to someone becoming more defensive, self-focused or emotionally guarded.
Long-standing traits becoming more noticeable
A person may have always had narcissistic tendencies, but they become more recognizable during conflict, as they get older or as they navigate stressful life phases.
Changes in power or status
Promotions, social influence or financial success can sometimes amplify self-centered behavior if those traits were already present.
Mental health challenges
Depression, trauma or unresolved emotional pain can sometimes show up as irritability, defensiveness or emotional distance that may be perceived as narcissism.
Cognitive or neurological changes
In some cases, personality shifts later in life may relate to neurological or medical conditions that affect behavior.
Whether you’re navigating a relationship with someone who has narcissistic traits or exploring your own patterns, support can help bring insight and healing. A therapist can help you learn about the root causes of narcissism and coping strategies to practice in the future, whether you’re on the receiving end of the behaviors, or you’re experiencing them yourself.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing narcissistic personality disorder symptoms that are impacting their daily function or posing a safety risk, Lightfully’s four levels of care can provide intensive support:
- Residential Treatment Center
- Partial Hospitalization Program
- Intensive Outpatient Program
- Virtual Services (vPHP/vIOP)
Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.
