Hi JustAMan,
[from Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, 1994, commonly referred to as DSM-IV, of the American Psychiatric Association. European countries use the diagnostic criteria of the World Health Organization.]
“An enduring pattern of inner experience and behavior that deviates markedly from the expectation of the individual's culture, is pervasive and inflexible, has an onset in adolescence or early adulthood, is stable over time, and leads to distress or impairment. “
Grandiosity is the hallmark of narcissism. Grandiosity:
“An exaggerated sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)”
Narcissists live in their own fantasy worlds (and react with affront when reality dares to intrude):
“Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love”
You write:
“Are Narcissists pathological liars? I don't know.
“I believe that indications are that they are less, or should that be MORE…..? than truthful especially if they have something to gain by it.
Regards,
Nan