Narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by excessive love for and preoccupation with one's self.

Clinically, narcissism is considered a personality disorder and is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV). Individuals with this disorder display an exaggerated sense of their own importance and abilities, brag about their accomplishments, and downplay the achievements of others. They believe themselves to be uniquely gifted and commonly engage in fantasies of fabulous success, power, or fame. Arrogant and egotistical, narcissistics are often snobs, defining themselves by their ability to associate with (or purchase the services of) the "best" people, and display a sense of entitlement, expecting (and taking for granted) special treatment and concessions from others. Paradoxically, individuals with narcissistic personality disorder are generally very insecure and have low self-esteem. They require the continual attention and admiration of others and find it difficult to cope with...