NPD - A Trait-Based Perspective

Hello readers! This week’s discussion will delve more into different theoretical models that may explain Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Hans Eysenck’s three-factor model of personality offers a more direct framework for explaining the pathological expression of traits we observe in NPD. If you ever hear the term “superfactors’ used or see the acronym “P, E, and N” used, it is likely referring to Eysenck’s model, which condensed personality into three broad traits: psychoticism (P), extraversion (E), and neuroticism (N) (Cervone & Pervin, 2023, p. 206). Unlike some of the trait approaches proposed by other theorists, the three-factor model offers an explanation for the pathological expression of traits, such as egocentrism and lack of empathy associated with psychoticism, as well as extreme levels of dominance and attention-seeking behaviors associated with extraversion. These are common behaviors observed in individuals with NPD, and this model accounts for their expression.

Just as the model accounts for the structural trails observed in NPD, it also offers insight into the emotional and behavioral processes that foster in the maintenance of these patterns over time. Meng et al. (2025) notes that psychoticism is a predictor of antisocial, self-serving, and dishonest behavior, overlapping with NPD traits. High levels of psychoticism contributes to maladaptive interpersonal strategies, limited emotional appropriateness, and a lack of empathy for others. Elevated levels of extraversion may lead to an increase in attention-seeking behavior even if in an inappropriate way. Over time, these behaviors can be reinforced as increased attention is received, with a false sense of validation of the sought after admiration, which could strengthen the maladaptive traits and further reinforce negative interpersonal patterns, as well as expectations.

Eysenck noted a biological basis for traits as well, acknowledging that there is a hereditary component (Cervone & Pervin, 2023). He proposed that pathological issues developed due to the biological and environmental factors combined. From a growth and development perspective, this suggests that behaviors associated with predisposition are reinforced through experiences over time. Therefore, when maladaptive behaviors present with NPD are reinforced, trait expressions may solidify over time. This also suggests that the behaviors can be addressed over time with behavioral modification in therapy. This would suggest seeking support from a provider that offers behavioral therapy.

Ultimately, Eysenck believed that despite the biological component of behaviors, behaviors are able to be unlearned and addressed via behavioral therapy approaches (Cervone & Pervin, 2023). He viewed behaviors such as the ones seen in individuals with NPD as psychopathological extremes of standard traits that the general population possesses to a lesser degree. Despite some critic’s beliefs that there is not much that can be done to address personality disorders, this model does allow for remediation of the behaviors presented, as there can be a focus on reducing the intensity of the traits and decreasing the reinforcement of the behaviors.

Keep This in Mind: Even traits with biological roots can shift over time, what's reinforced can be unlearned, and change begins where awareness and support come together.

References:

Cervone, D., & Pervin, L. A. (2023). Personality: Theory and research (15th ed.). Wiley.

Meng, Y., Peng, Z., Zhang, Z., Chen, Q., Huang, H., Chen, Y., & Zhao, M. (2025). Predicting honest behavior based on Eysenck personality traits and gender: an explainable machine learning study using SHAP analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 16. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1525606