Covert narcissists’ traits can be harder to detect than those of an overt narcissist because they might appear humble and shy. Deep down, though, they have fragile self-esteem, are highly sensitive to criticism, and have a limited capacity for empathy.
Therefore, how can I figure out if I am a covert narcissist? The covert narcissist test is a self-assessment tool that can help you reveal how these behaviors affect you and the people around you.
Could you be a vulnerable narcissist? test
About the covert narcissist test: Methodology & origins
The test provided is based on the Maladaptive Covert Narcissism Scale, which was developed as a response to the need for a more nuanced understanding of narcissistic traits. Traditionally, tests for narcissism mostly looked at overt traits like grandiosity and vanity, neglecting to examine less obvious signs of narcissism.
The Maladaptive Covert Narcissism Scale (MCNS) was developed by A. V. Cheek, H. Hendin, and P. Vink in 2013 as an expanded version of the Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS). The earlier version of the HSNS was designed to assess vulnerable aspects of narcissism.
The MCNS contains 23 items and measures traits associated with covert narcissism, including:
In validation studies, the Maladaptive Covert Narcissism Scale (MCNS) showed strong internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.89. It also correlated 0.65 with the MMPI’s Covert Narcissism Measure, indicating that it assesses a similar underlying trait while improving on the earlier Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS), as reported in the original MCNS validation work by Cheek, Hendin, and Wink (2013).
Dr. Craig Malkin, a clinical psychologist and author of numerous papers on narcissism, has also contributed to a broader understanding of vulnerable and covert narcissistic traits. His work has helped popularize the distinction between healthy self-esteem and maladaptive narcissistic behavior patterns and emphasizes that narcissism exists on a spectrum, rather than being a simple “yes” or “no” characteristic.
What is covert narcissism?
“Covert narcissism” is a widely used psychological term for narcissistic traits that tend to appear in less obvious ways. While Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is an official clinical diagnosis, “covert narcissism” is not a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5-TR. Instead, it is commonly used to describe a more vulnerable or hidden presentation of narcissistic traits that can occur within the broader spectrum of NPD.
Covert narcissism patterns might be difficult to spot, as they’re less obvious. People with this type of narcissism may appear shy or overly self-critical while in reality struggling with genuine empathy and chronic envy, seeking validation through reassurance, withdrawal, and self-pity. They might see themselves as martyrs misunderstood by society.
Research shows mixed gender findings: large meta-analytic work reports essentially no difference between men and women, while some individual studies find slightly higher scores in women on certain vulnerable-narcissism measures. [1] Grijalva E, Newman DA, Tay L, Donnellan MB, Harms PD, Robins RW, Yan T. “Gender differences in narcissism: a meta-analytic review.” Psychol Bull. 2015 , [2] Green A, MacLean R, Charles K. “Female Narcissism: Assessment, Aetiology, and Behavioural Manifestations.” Psychol Rep. 2022
Common traits of covert narcissism
- Heightened sensitivity to criticism
- A tendency toward passive-aggressive behavior
- Desire for recognition
- Preference for indirect validation
- A subtle expression of entitlement
- Loneliness and feelings of inadequacy
- The outward appearance of humility or shyness
- Tendency to rationalize behavior through guilt-tripping
- Blaming others instead of accepting responsibility
Recommendations after passing the “Am I a covert narcissist?” test
This covert narcissism test consists of 15 questions, while scores of 11-15 indicate strong covert narcissist traits. If you’ve found out that you are likely to engage in maladaptive narcissism, here are some things that may be helpful to take care of your emotional well-being (both yours and people around you).
- Self-reflection. Reflect on the areas where you scored high. Consider how these traits may be impacting your relationships and overall well-being.
- Get to know yourself. Focus on developing empathy and improving your communication skills. Practice self-awareness and mindfulness to better understand your emotions and reactions.
- Seek professional help. If you find that you have significant covert narcissistic tendencies, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapy can provide valuable tools and strategies for managing these traits.
We asked Nicole Arzt, LMFT, whether it’s okay to have some covert narcissistic traits. “If you identify with having some covert narcissistic traits, it’s important to first practice self-compassion. You are not inherently bad, broken, or doomed. It is absolutely possible to change and grow into a better version of yourself. This requires introspection, a desire to manage ego, and the willingness to hold yourself accountable when making mistakes.”
Covert narcissist test for someone else? Check your close ones for narcissistic traits
There are also some things that can help you find out whether a person around you might be a covert narcissist. While this checklist isn’t a diagnostic tool, it can serve as a quick personality assessment.
They might be a covert narcissist if:
What type of narcissist am I? Unofficial kinds of narcissistic personality disorder
- Overt (grandiose) narcissists tend to want attention and recognition and may come across as superior. These people may be trying to feel like they are the most successful, talented, or important in the room.
- Covert (vulnerable) narcissist is someone who may appear insecure or easily hurt rather than openly self-important. Still, they can have a strong need for validation and may take criticism very personally.
- Malignant narcissist. This term is used for people who show narcissistic traits alongside more harmful behaviors, such as manipulation, aggression, or a willingness to exploit others.
- Communal (altruistic) narcissist is a person who builds their sense of importance around being seen as kind, helpful, generous, or morally good. They may care a lot about getting recognition for the good things they do.
Covert and overt narcissism — Differences
Overt and covert narcissism were clearly distinguished in 1991 by Paulette Wink. [3] Wink P. “Two faces of narcissism.” J Pers Soc Psychol. 1991 Here are the main differences.
Frequently asked questions
If I’m not sure whether I’m a covert narcissist or not, can I take this quiz?
Yes, definitely. The purpose of the test is to provide information and self-reflection. It’s designed to help you understand potential narcissist traits in yourself.
Can I trust the covert narcissist quiz?
This test is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. If you have concerns about covert narcissism, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for further evaluation and support.
What’s covert narcissism?
Covert narcissism, also known as vulnerable narcissism, is considered a subtype of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Unlike their overt counterparts, covert narcissists are less obvious in their behavior. They often present themselves as shy or introverted, making it harder to detect their narcissistic tendencies.
So, can covert narcissists change over time?
“Yes, people with covert narcissism can change. It’s important to prioritize building a healthy concept of self-image. It’s equally important to focus on forming genuine, high-quality relationships with people who have firm boundaries. This helps you enjoy connection and practice healthier interpersonal habits. Therapy can also address the underlying trauma that often perpetuates narcissistic patterns,” says Nicole Arzt, Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT)
Can I use this test for covert narcissism to assess someone else, like a partner or parent?
Yes, you can use this covert narcissist test for someone else. However, it’s best used to understand patterns rather than label or diagnose another person, especially because covert narcissism isn’t a formal diagnosis.
What's the difference between a vulnerable narcissism test and a covert NPD test?
The terms are often used interchangeably because “covert” and “vulnerable” narcissism describe similar patterns of narcissistic traits. However, neither is a separate type of NPD recognized in the DSM-5, so a test for these traits cannot diagnose narcissistic personality disorder.
Sources
- Grijalva E, Newman DA, Tay L, Donnellan MB, Harms PD, Robins RW, Yan T. “Gender differences in narcissism: a meta-analytic review.” Psychol Bull. 2015
- Green A, MacLean R, Charles K. “Female Narcissism: Assessment, Aetiology, and Behavioural Manifestations.” Psychol Rep. 2022
- Wink P. “Two faces of narcissism.” J Pers Soc Psychol. 1991
Disclaimer
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