• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • Bipolar Disorder Cycles
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Online Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Online Therapists
    • Grief Counselors
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
    • Session Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
      • What is Anxiety?
      • Types of Anxiety Disorders
      • Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety
      • Treatments for Anxiety
      • Anxiety Statistics
      • See More Anxiety Content
      • Find an Anxiety Specialist
    • Depression
      • What is Depression?
      • Types of Depression
      • Signs & Symptoms of Depression
      • Treatments for Depression
      • Depression Statistics
      • Find a Depression Specialist
    • Bipolar Disorder
      • What is Bipolar Disorder?
      • Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II
      • Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
      • Bipolar Disorder Cycles
      • Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
      • Find a Bipolar Disorder Specialist
    • ADHD
      • What is ADHD?
      • ADHD Signs & Symptoms
      • ADHD & Depression
      • Find an ADHD Specialist
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
      • Anorexia
      • Bulimia
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Gender Dysphoria
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Online Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Online Therapists
    • Grief Counselors
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
    • Session Login
Skip to content

10 Signs of a Narcissistic Sociopath

Published: November 16, 2021 Updated: June 17, 2022
Published: 11/16/2021 Updated: 06/17/2022
Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Written by:

Hailey Shafir

LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Headshot of Rajy Abulhosn, MD
Reviewed by:

Rajy Abulhosn

MD
  • Characteristics of a Narcissistic SociopathCharacteristics
  • Signs of a Narcissistic Sociopath10 Signs
  • How to Deal With a Narcissistic SociopathHow to Deal
  • When & How a Therapist Can HelpTherapy
  • Final Thoughts on Narcissistic SociopathsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Written by:

Hailey Shafir

LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Headshot of Rajy Abulhosn, MD
Reviewed by:

Rajy Abulhosn

MD

A narcissistic sociopath describes a dangerous person who demonstrates traits and symptoms of both narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and antisocial personality disorder (APD). They derive satisfaction from manipulating, deceiving, using, and abusing others in order to get what they want.1,2,3 They may use charm, charisma, humor, or other disguises to get people to like and trust them, making it harder to detect their narcissistic and sociopathic traits.4

Therapy can help you recover from narcissistic abuse. BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you.

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for referrals by BetterHelp

Visit BetterHelp

Characteristics of a Narcissistic Sociopath

A narcissistic sociopath is a person who displays both narcissistic and antisocial personality traits. NPD is characterized as a grandiose sense of self-importance, attitude of entitlement or arrogance, and an excessive need for external validation. The symptoms of ASD include impulsivity, aggression, and a total disregard for rules, laws, and social norms.5

A narcissistic sociopath (also called a narcopath or malignant narcissist) has both disorders and is considered one of the most dangerous and psychologically disturbed kinds of people.1,2,3 Their complete lack of empathy or regard for the feelings or needs of other people makes them much more likely to act out behaviors that most people would consider wrong, bad, or even evil.4

Unlike classic narcissists, sociopathic narcissists are not only driven by their own self-interest. Some experts believe that narcissistic sociopaths are sadistic, and derive pleasure or satisfaction from the suffering of other people.1,2 This makes them less predictable and also more dangerous than classic narcissists, as they may deceive, exploit, or harm someone even when there is nothing for them to “gain” from doing so.

Differences Between Narcissists & Sociopaths

Narcissists and sociopaths have distinct differences. Narcissists are people who have narcissistic personality disorder. Someone with NPD has an inflated, grandiose, or arrogant view of themselves, and demonstrates this in how they interact with others.5 They are primarily driven by a need for external validation, which they might seek out in the form of praise, power, success, or attention from others.6

A sociopath is a term used to describe someone with antisocial personality disorder. A person with APD is often described as emotionless, detached, or cold, and is either unable or unwilling to consider the feelings or needs of other people. They tend to be driven by impulses, destructive urges, and in some instances, a desire to harm others.

10 Signs of a Narcissistic Sociopath

In order to be classified as a narcopath, malignant narcissist, or narcissistic sociopath, a person has to display several traits of both NPD and APD. Some of these signs include delusions, an obsession with power and control, taking advantage of others, and no moral boundaries.

Here are ten signs of a narcissistic sociopath:

1. They Live In a Deluded Reality

Narcissistic sociopaths don’t see the world in the same way other people do. In their distorted version of reality, they are entitled to whatever they want, regardless of what it takes to get it or who is hurt in the process.4 They will justify their actions, even ones that are inexcusable, and show no remorse.

Their narcissism may also lead them to develop delusions of grandeur about being important, special, or exceptional in some way, or paranoid delusions that others are out to get them.1,2

2. They Are Obsessed With Power & Control

People with NPD and ADP are often power hungry, and put a lot of time and effort into acquiring positions that give them power or control over other people, bowling over anyone who gets in their way. Once they obtain power, they may demand to be addressed in a certain way or make others follow rules that don’t make sense.

Their obsession with power and control also tends to show up as a refusal to acknowledge any other authority, including rules, laws, policies, or requests made of them by others.4

3. They Take Advantage of & Use Other People

Narcissistic sociopaths have a habit of using, exploiting, and taking advantage of others. This tendency shows up in all of their relationships, including romantic relationships and any friendships or family relationships they’ve been able to maintain. They seek out codependent, nurturing types who are more easily manipulated and controlled through guilt, shame, or fear, and will hold onto these relationships only as long as the person is “useful.”4

4. They Have No Moral Boundaries

There are no lines a narcissistic sociopath won’t cross to get what they want. Their moral compass is non-existent, leaving them without the sense of “right and wrong” that most people have. After doing something harmful, illegal, or sadistic, they won’t feel remorse, regret, or guilt. In fact, they may even feel a sense of satisfaction knowing they were able to deceive, emotionally manipulate, or hurt someone.1,3,4

5. They Have a Limited Range of Emotions

Malignant narcissists don’t experience feelings of love and affection, or more vulnerable emotions like guilt, shame, or sadness. The only strong emotion they seem to be able to access is anger, which will show up as outrage when they’re slighted, offended, or not granted something they feel they deserve.4

Their stunted emotional range also keeps them from being able to have empathy for other people, and may also lead them to destructive behaviors that allow them to feel something.1,3

6. They Have a Huge Discard Pile

Narcissistic sociopaths are known to discard people and things that are no longer useful to them. Over time, their discard pile stacks up and may include former friends, lovers, colleagues, and mentors who they betrayed, abandoned, or abused. Their discard pile may also include expensive material things they got bored or tired of, as well as roles or activities that served a purpose at one time, but are no longer useful to them.4

7. They Become Hostile When Threatened

Narcissistic sociopaths are most dangerous when they feel threatened, which may be more often than most people. Because of their natural tendency to be paranoid, less trusting, and more easily offended, threats can be a routine occurrence for them. When they feel threatened, the narcopath will often become hostile and aggressive, lashing out and becoming abusive towards others.1,2,4

8. They Feed Off of Negative Energy

The narcissistic sociopath is a person who feeds off of negative emotions and energy. There is something about drama, other’s fear or pain, or the chaos of disaster that seems to excite them or give them energy. This kind of parasitic attraction to negativity is a telltale sign of a sick person, including a person who may have traits of NPD and APD.

This behavior is also what makes a sociopathic narcissist sadistic and dangerous, causing them to enjoy the pain and suffering of others.1

9. They Get Bored Easily

A narcissistic sociopath is constantly seeking sensations and cheap thrills because nothing can hold their interest and attention for long. They become easily bored with people, things, and activities, and will abandon them once they are no longer entertained.

Their boredom can also turn into a restlessness that causes them to find destructive outlets, which is why people with these traits tend to be impulsive, aggressive, and engaged in crime, violence, or drug use.1,4

10. They Are Empty Inside

A narcissistic sociopath may have worked hard to craft a powerful, important-looking exterior, but this is a front. Lacking the ability to feel a full range of emotions makes them hollow and empty on the inside, keeping them from really experiencing things, expressing themselves, or connecting and relating with others.3

This internal emptiness is what they’re trying to hide from others with their narcissism, and also what they’re trying to escape within themselves by using drugs or maintaining a level of entertainment, power, or destruction.

Narcissist Abuse Support Groups

Circles offers support groups which meet weekly by video. Support groups provide a safe place to share your experiences, and learn from others going through similar experiences. Circles offers groups focused on specific relationships, like narcissistic parents or narcissistic romantic relationships. Join a Circles group for just $20 per week. Learn More

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health & wellness companies and is compensated for referrals by the company mentioned above.

How to Deal With a Narcissistic Sociopath

While no person is beyond hope, a person with narcissistic and antisocial personality disorder is unlikely to change. Narcissistic sociopaths can be dangerous, abusive, or violent, and should be avoided if possible. They’re most likely to become dangerous when you upset them, offend them, or fail to meet an expectation they have, but they can also be unpredictable and impulsive.1

Some narcissistic sociopaths are even sadistic and enjoy inflicting pain, which displays a level of brokenness that even therapy may not be able to correct.1,3,4 For these reasons, most experts recommend that you not get into a relationship with someone who has these traits, and to leave a relationship if you see these signs. If that’s not an option, start by learning how to deal with a narcissist, protect yourself, and behave in ways that are less likely to make you their target.

When & How a Therapist Can Help

Therapy can help you overcome a range of issues, including helping you recover from narcissistic abuse, but it cannot change the narcissistic sociopath in your life. People with this combination of personality disorders are usually unable to empathize and aren’t motivated by the same drives as others. Instead, they’re driven by self-interest, power, impulses, and in some cases, a sick need to hurt or control.1,3,4

If you want therapy to heal from abuse from a narcissistic sociopath, seek out a therapist who is knowledgeable about NPD, APD, and narcissistic abuse. Finding a therapist who is trauma-informed is also recommended. They can help you overcome common impacts of narcissistic abuse including shame, guilt, self-doubt, and codependence. Begin your search on a free online therapist directory.

Final Thoughts on Narcissistic Sociopaths

Narcissistic sociopaths are people who demonstrate traits of both narcissistic and antisocial personality disorders. People with this combination of traits and tendencies lack empathy and often behave in ways that are abusive or exploitative.1,3 Knowing the signs of a narcissistic sociopath can help you identify people with these dangerous traits so you can avoid interactions and protect yourself from their destructive impulses.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for referrals by the companies mentioned below.

Narcissist Abuse Support Groups – Circles offers support groups that provide a safe place to share your experiences and learn from others going through similar experiences. Groups bring together people based on their relationship with the narcissist, like those who have been involved in a romantic relationship with a narcissist. Groups meet weekly by video and are led by expert facilitators. Learn More

BetterHelp (Online Therapy) – BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy. BetterHelp starts at $60 per week. Complete a brief questionnaire and get matched with the right therapist for you. Get Started

Online-Therapy.com – The Online-Therapy.com standard plan includes a weekly 45 minute video session, unlimited text messaging between sessions, and self-guided activities like journaling. Recently, they added Yoga videos. Get Started

Headspace (Meditation App) – Headspace is the leading mindfulness and meditation app with over 70 million members. Headspace offers guidance and exercises for all skill levels, including beginners. Free Trial

Choosing Therapy’s Directory – Find an experienced therapist who is committed to your wellbeing. You can search for a therapist by specialty, availability, insurance, and affordability. Therapist profiles and introductory videos provide insight into the therapist’s personality so you find the right fit. Find a therapist today.

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for referrals by Circles, BetterHelp, Online-Therapy.com, and Headspace

For Further Reading

  • Narcissistic Abuse Support
  • 10 Signs of Being Raised by a Narcissist
  • Narcissistic Abuse: Signs, Effects, & Treatment
  • What is a Malignant Narcissist: Signs, Causes, & How to Deal With One
6 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • E., Levy, K. N., & Yeomans, F. E. (2015). Narcissistic personality disorder: Diagnostic and clinical challenges. American Journal of Psychiatry, 172(5), 415-422.

  • George, F. R., & Short, D. (2018). The cognitive neuroscience of narcissism. Journal of Brain, Behavior and Cognitive Sciences, 1, ID-6.

  • Frick, P. J., & White, S. F. (2008). Research review: The importance of callous‐unemotional traits for developmental models of aggressive and antisocial behavior. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, 49(4), 359-375

  • Zeiders, C., & Devlin, P. (2019). Malignant Narcissism and Power: A Psychodynamic Exploration of Madness and Leadership. Routledge

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596

  • Dashineau, S. C., Edershile, E. A., Simms, L. J., & Wright, A. (2019). Pathological narcissism and psychosocial functioning. Personality disorders, 10(5), 473–478. https://doi.org/10.1037/per0000347

Recent Articles

FT_25_Gaslighting_Phrases_Abusers_Use
25 Gaslighting Phrases Abusers UseAlthough gaslighting is not a clinical term, the word refers to another person attempting to make you doubt what more
';
Impulsive_Borderline_Personality_Disorder
Impulsive Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)Those with impulsive BPD tend to have a pattern of engaging in impulsive high-risk behaviors (e.g., unsafe sex, substance more
';
FT_DARVO
DARVO: Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim & OffenderWhile every abuse situation is unique, the strategies abusers use to maintain their status share some similar themes. Many more
';
Narcissistic Abuse: Signs, Effects, & Treatments
Narcissistic Abuse: Signs, Effects, & TreatmentsNarcissistic abuse can lead the victim to feel confused and disconnected from their intuition. This abuse has subtle signs more
';
BPD vs NPD: Important Similarities & Differences
BPD vs. NPD: Important Similarities & DifferencesBorderline issues stem from unstable emotions/sense of self and fear of abandonment while narcissists’ concerns involve excessive self-importance, lack more
';
16 Signs of Narcissistic Friends: What They Do & Say
16 Signs of Narcissistic Friends: What They Do & SayNarcissistic friendships often turn one-sided, conflictual, territorial, and sometimes aggressive. Narcissistic friends seek out constant praise, prioritize their own more
';
Headshot of Hailey Shafir, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Written by:

Hailey Shafir

LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Headshot of Rajy Abulhosn, MD
Reviewed by:

Rajy Abulhosn

MD
  • Characteristics of a Narcissistic SociopathCharacteristics
  • Signs of a Narcissistic Sociopath10 Signs
  • How to Deal With a Narcissistic SociopathHow to Deal
  • When & How a Therapist Can HelpTherapy
  • Final Thoughts on Narcissistic SociopathsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
If you are in need of immediate medical help:
Medical
Emergency
911
Suicide Hotline
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
Crisis Hotlines here
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit Cookie Settings to provide controlled consent. Cookie settings ACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

We use cookies to facilitate website functionality. Also, we use third-party cookies to track your website behavior and target advertising. These cookies are stored in your browser only with your consent, and you have the choice of opting out.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non Necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Save & Accept