What Is A 'Communal Narcissist'?

This type of narcissism is sneakier but still toxic. Here's how to spot it and how you should interact with people who fit the description.

When you imagine a narcissist (or simply reflect on ones you’ve met), you likely think of people who are arrogant and self-aggrandizing about their personal successes and superior skills. They’re overtly entitled, making it clear that they believe they deserve only the best.

But narcissism can also manifest in alternative ways and even in people who do good things for others and for their communities as a whole. In fact, there’s a term for them: communal narcissism.

What exactly is communal narcissism? And how should we identify and interact with communal narcissists we encounter? Below, experts break it down.

What is communal narcissism?

“Communal narcissism is a subtype of narcissism in which an individual appears deeply involved in community affairs but lacks genuine care for others,” Hannah Alderete, a licensed mental health counselor and author of “Break Free From Narcissistic Mothers,” told HuffPost. “While they may seem selfless and dedicated to humanitarian efforts, their true motivation is the attention and validation they receive for being seen as a ‘pillar’ of the community.”