Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

Which of the following is a common symptom of narcissistic personality disorder?

1. Fear of abandonment

2. Interpersonal exploitativeness

3. Emotional detachment

4. Compulsive behavior

The correct answer is: Interpersonal exploitativeness

Interpersonal exploitativeness is a hallmark symptom of narcissistic personality disorder. Individuals with this condition often have an inflated sense of self-importance and a strong need for admiration, leading them to view others primarily as tools for their own benefit. This exploitation can manifest in personal relationships, professional settings, and social interactions, where the narcissistic individual may manipulate or take advantage of others to achieve their own goals, disregarding the feelings or needs of those they exploit. In contrast, fear of abandonment is more commonly associated with borderline personality disorder, where individuals may experience intense emotions and fear of losing relationships. Emotional detachment is generally linked to avoidant or schizoid personality traits rather than narcissism. Compulsive behavior, while it can be seen in various psychological disorders, does not specifically characterize narcissistic personality disorder, which is more focused on the dynamics of self-importance and interpersonal relationships. Understanding interpersonal exploitativeness as a defining characteristic helps clarify the nature of relationships affected by narcissistic traits.