Mapping Narcissistic Personality Patterns to IPDE Personality-Disorder Vulnerability in Young Adults: An Integrative Model.

Abstract

Narcissism is increasingly recognised as a complex, multidimensional construct. However, research rarely investigates how specific narcissistic patterns influence vulnerability to personality disorders. This study combines the Narcissistic Personality Patterns Test (NPPT) with the International Personality Disorder Examination (IPDE) to explore how different narcissistic styles relate to criteria for Cluster B and Cluster C personality disorders. A sample of 300 young adults completed both the NPPT and the IPDE Screening Questionnaire. Structural equation modelling examined the relationships between four narcissistic patterns—Admiration Seeking, Entitlement, Perfectionistic Self-Control, and Emotional Coldness—and the risk for personality disorders. The findings showed that Entitlement significantly predicted Cluster B traits, Perfectionistic Self-Control was linked to Cluster C traits, and Emotional Coldness was associated with both narcissistic and schizoid tendencies. Admiration seeking demonstrated minimal clinical risk. These results support a nuanced model of narcissistic functioning and highlight perfectionistic narcissism as an important, yet often overlooked, risk factor