3 Key Differences Between A Narcissist And A Sociopath

Aug 07, 2018

Can you tell the difference between a narcissist and a sociopath? Most people can’t. It is very hard to tell the difference, however, neither of these words tend to bring a pleasant feeling. Both narcissist and sociopaths are very good at hiding their emotions or intentions. If you are in a relationship with a narcissist or a sociopath, it is often an abusive relationship.

It is important to be able to tell the difference between a narcissist and a sociopath. Psychologists have been studying the behaviors of both to help us better understand the difference.

Narcissists think they are the most important person in the world. They are very self-involved. They need all of the attention people can give them and they think everyone wants to hear everything they are saying. They will often force themselves into a conversation or simply change the conversation to better fit them. They believe their opinions are the ones that matter the most and they will avoid anyone who doesn’t agree.

A sociopath, on the other hand, will try to get to know others. However, this isn’t because they care. They have the ability to manipulate other people and they get to know people to use it against them. Sociopaths will often appear charming to others. It will draw people towards them. Unlike narcissists, they will try to draw the attention away from themselves and their flaws.

If narcissists don’t get the attention they think they deserve, they will lash out on those around them. They will feel very offended if everyone doesn’t think they are as great as they think they are. If they feel someone isn’t paying enough attention to them or praising them enough, they will get enraged and very angry. They will lash out.

Sociopaths don’t often hold onto their anger for very long. They aren’t as in touch with their emotions. They feel any kind of emotion on a very shallow level. They might get a little upset, but the emotion isn’t there for long. They often have to fake or mimic emotions to convince those around them that they are normal.

Narcissists will try to scare people into doing what they want. In order to control someone, they will use anger, violence, and threats. They will publicly shame someone with insults. They shame someone into thinking the way they do.

Sociopaths are very different. They won’t appear as mean. They will use back handed complements to get their way. They will use people’s vulnerabilities against them. They spent time getting to know someone and all of their flaws. They will know where to really hurt someone. They will flatter someone in order to get their way. It is hard to say no to someone who just gave you a compliment. They aren’t easy to anger and don’t worry as much when something doesn’t go their way. They are more patient.

Both narcissist and sociopaths can be very harmful in relationships. While they are very similar, they are also very different. Either way, you need to get these toxic people out of your life. They can be very damaging personalities. Let your friends and family know that they need to cut these people out too and show them this article.