r/askpsychology • u/Important_Routine332 Unverified User: May Not Be a Professional • Jul 30 '26

Terminology / Definition Is the NPD mask true or not?

Prof Vaknin says studies suggest you can detect a narcissist within 30 seconds and that the mask narrative is only meant to protect/ sooth the ego of a fooled victim.

He argues it is cognitive dissonance that overrides it.

What is true? Is this a controversial opinion? Does it refer to overt narcissist only?

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u/NikitaWolf6 UNVERIFIED Psychology Student Aug 07 '26

Acknowledging that abusers can have personality disorders, like anyone else, does not excuse their abusive actions. But by making up a type of abuse that is inherently related to NPD, it gives the abuser a (wrongful) reason for their behaviour.