What Is a Covert Narcissist?

A covert narcissist is someone who displays the core traits of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) but in a subtle, introverted, or “quiet” way. Unlike the stereotypical grandiose or overt narcissist—who seeks the spotlight and openly boasts—a covert narcissist often hides behind a façade of humility, shyness, or victimhood. This can make them harder to recognize, yet their impact on relationships and well-being can be just as damaging.

Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is characterized by a persistent pattern of:

• Grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior)
• A strong need for admiration
• Lack of empathy for others

According to Pincus, Cain, and Wright (2009), people with NPD may vary in how they express these traits. While some are overtly self-aggrandizing, others internalize their self-importance and appear quiet or reserved—that’s the covert style.

Overt vs. Covert Narcissist

Feature	Overt Narcissist	Covert Narcissist
Self-presentation	Boastful, attention-seeking	Humble façade, shy, socially anxious
Reaction to criticism	Defensive, angry outbursts	Withdrawn, sulking, passive-aggressive
Empathy	Limited, but can feign caring	Limited, hides indifference behind concern
Relationship style	Controlling, demanding	Martyr-like, guilt-inducing

Common Traits of Covert Narcissists

A covert narcissist may:

• Act overly modest while secretly seeking praise
• Play the victim to manipulate sympathy
• Harbor deep envy toward others’ successes
• Suffer from chronic low self-esteem masked by fantasies of greatness
• Use passive-aggressive behaviors (silent treatment, backhanded compliments)
• Misinterpret neutral feedback as personal attacks

These individuals often feel misunderstood, yet they rarely take genuine responsibility for their feelings or actions.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of covert narcissism is complex, contributing factors include:

• Early childhood experiences, such as excessive criticism or over-indulgence
• Inconsistent parenting that alternated between idealizing and devaluing
• Genetic and temperamental vulnerabilities
• Cultural or family environments that reward hidden competitiveness

None of these factors guarantee someone will become a narcissist, but they can increase the risk.

Impact on Relationships

Relationships with covert narcissists can be confusing and emotionally draining:

• Partners may feel they’re “walking on eggshells”
• Loved ones often question their own perceptions
• Covert narcissists may silently rage or withdraw when their needs aren’t met
• Over time, friends or family can feel manipulated, invalidated, or blamed

Because covert narcissists are masters at appearing gentle or self-effacing, it’s easy to dismiss red flags until patterns become entrenched.

Recognizing the Signs

You might be dealing with a covert narcissist if you notice someone who:

• Frequently tells stories that cast them as the victim
• Brings conversations back to themselves in subtle ways
• Shows little genuine interest in others’ experiences
• Complains of chronic “misunderstanding” or “unfairness”
• Responds to feedback by withdrawing affection or giving silent treatments

Taking a Free, Online Symptom Check

If you’re wondering whether you or someone you care about fits this pattern, you might consider doing a free, online “symptom check for ”:
https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/narcissistic-personality-disorder-screening/

This quick, anonymous screening can help you decide if professional evaluation is warranted.

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose NPD. If covert narcissism is causing distress, impaired relationships, or interfering with daily life, consider:

• Speaking with a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist
• Requesting a comprehensive personality assessment
• Exploring therapy options (individual, group, or family therapy)

Early intervention can improve insights and coping strategies, reducing the long-term impact on you and those around you.

Treatment and Coping Strategies

While covert narcissism can be challenging, treatments and self-help approaches include:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge distorted thinking
• Schema therapy to address deep-rooted patterns of shame and entitlement
• Developing genuine empathy through perspective-taking exercises
• Mindfulness practices to reduce defensive reactions
• Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships

For family members and friends, effective coping may involve:

• Educating yourself about covert narcissism
• Practicing assertive communication and boundary-setting
• Seeking support from counselors or support groups
• Maintaining self-care routines to protect your well-being

Moving Forward

Living with or loving a covert narcissist can feel like navigating a maze of hidden expectations and subtle emotional manipulation. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward healthier interactions and personal growth.

If you suspect that you or someone close to you has traits of covert narcissism, consider taking that free online symptom check and, more importantly, speak to a mental health professional for a thorough evaluation.

And remember, if you ever experience thoughts or behaviors that feel life-threatening or seriously out of control, please speak to a doctor or call emergency services immediately. Your safety and well-being come first.