You often hear about different types of narcissists, such as covert, overt, and malignant. But another important distinction is between high and low functioning narcissists.
High and low functioning narcissists share the same goals and issues, but they present differently. Which can throw you off the scent if you suspect someone’s a narcissist.
The faster and more accurately you spot narcissists, the better. Because it gives you more time to stop them entering your life, before they’re ingrained in it. Which makes it easier to keep them, at bay.
Here’s a look at high and low functioning narcissists, and the differences between them…
Please Watch The Following Short Video To Aid Your Understanding…
What Is A High Functioning Narcissist?
A high functioning narcissist is a narcissist who can succeed in structured environments, such as work, social settings, and leadership…
Key Characteristics Of High Functioning Narcissists
1. Outward Success
High functioning narcissists often appear accomplished. They may have important jobs, high social status, and achieve recognition. Their ambition and confidence can drive real success.
2. Charm And Social Skill
High functioning narcissists can be charming and charismatic. They often know how to make a good first impression, and how to build networks.
3. Image Management
They’re careful how others perceive them. They manage their behaviour in public, and appear holier than thou to outsiders. But in private, their behaviour is wildly different.
4. Subtle Manipulation
Rather than overt aggression, high functioning narcissists use more subtle tactics such as guilt, passive aggression, and flattery.
5. Fragile Self Esteem Beneath The Surface
Despite appearing confident, their self worth still depends on external validation and looking successful to others. So you may see them “uncharacteristically” crumble when things don’t go their way.
What Is A Low Functioning Narcissist?
Low functioning narcissists struggle holding down jobs, keeping stable relationships, and staying on top of daily responsibilities. Their narcissism is more disruptive, chaotic, and harder to regulate than higher functioning narcissists…
Key Characteristics
1. Lack Of Stability
Lower functioning narcissists may keep losing jobs, struggle with finances, and have chaotic personal lives.
2. Overt Grandiosity And Victimhood
They swing wildly from being superior one minute, to a poor victim the next.
3. Poor Emotional Regulation
Low functioning narcissists are more likely to show anger, defensiveness, and emotional outbursts when challenged.
4. Obvious Manipulation
Their attempts to control others are more transparent. They may use tactics such as blatant lying, blame shifting, and intimidation.
5. Relationship Instability
Low functioning narcissists often have turbulent relationships full of conflict, dependency, and repeated breakdowns. So they may regularly cycle through different relationships and friendships.
Key Differences Between High And Low Functioning Narcissists
| Trait | High Functioning Narcissist | Low Functioning Narcissist |
|---|---|---|
| Career & Success | Often successful and driven | Often unstable, and underachieving |
| Social Skills | Polished and charming | Awkward, abrasive, and inconsistent |
| Manipulation Style | Subtle and strategic | Obvious and reactive |
| Emotional Control | Appears composed | Prone to outbursts |
| Self Image | Carefully maintained | Inconsistent, aggressive, and toxic |
| Relationships | Seem stable on the surface | Often chaotic and short lived |
The difference between these two patterns is important because high functioning narcissists can be harder to spot. Their success and charm masks harmful behaviours. Plus they’re more subtle. So they’re more likely to infiltrate peoples lives.
Lower functioning narcissists, are easier to spot because their behaviour is more obvious. So they’re less likely to covertly ingrain themselves into your life.
Final Thoughts
Both high and low functioning narcissists share the same underlying traits. It’s their ability to manage those traits that’s the difference. High functioning narcissists thrive outwardly whilst causing quiet harm. Whereas lower functioning narcissists struggle more openly, creating drama and chaos wherever they go.
High functioning narcissists aren’t necessarily more intelligent than lower functioning narcissists. But they usually have higher cognitive flexibility, better self regulation, and a greater ability to fit in to society.
Higher functioning narcissists better utilise their fake façade. They know their reputation is important for keeping attention and favours flowing. So they keep their mask up most of the time, creating the impression they’re good people. They only trade their reputation in when the risks are low, and the rewards are high.
Lower functioning narcissists are more likely to trade their reputation in to satisfy their immediate needs and urges. Even if the trade doesn’t make sense long term. For example, blatantly stealing £20 from a friend, ruining their friendship.
So higher and lower functioning narcissist are essentially the same. But higher functioning narcissists better blend into society. But unfortunately they’re also more able to blend into families and friendship groups. Silently exploiting, and creating problems from within.
Please CLICK HERE For The Different Types Of Narcissists
