Nonnarcissistic

Nonnarcissistic is an adjective used to describe a person or behavior that does not exhibit prominent narcissistic traits. In psychology, narcissism can refer to a spectrum ranging from normal personality traits to narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). The term nonnarcissistic is not a formal clinical diagnosis; rather, it indicates a relative absence of narcissistic features.

People described as nonnarcissistic are typically characterized by balanced self-esteem, empathy, and willingness to collaborate. They may still show occasional self-interest or assertiveness, but they do not display the pervasive patterns of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy associated with higher levels of narcissism.

In research, narcissism is measured with instruments such as the Narcissistic Personality Inventory; individuals with low scores may be described as nonnarcissistic in relative terms. The label should be used cautiously to avoid oversimplification of complex personality traits or stigmatizing language. It is possible for a person to function as nonnarcissistic in some contexts while displaying narcissistic tendencies in others.

Etymology: from narcissism, derived from the myth of Narcissus in Greek mythology. See also Narcissism, Narcissistic personality disorder, Self-esteem, Empathy, Personality traits.