Free Narcissism Test — NPI-16
Based on the validated Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI-16) · 16 questions · 3 minutes · Instant results
Instructions: For each question, choose the statement that best describes you — even if neither fits perfectly. There are no right or wrong answers. Be as honest as possible for the most accurate result.
About This Narcissism Test
This free narcissism test is based on the NPI-16 (Narcissistic Personality Inventory — 16 item version), a validated short form developed by Ames, Rose and Anderson in 2006. It is one of the most commonly used tools in personality psychology research to measure narcissistic traits in general populations.
The NPI uses forced-choice pairs — you choose between two statements — which reduces social desirability bias compared to agree/disagree scales. Your total score reflects the number of narcissistic choices selected, on a scale of 0 to 16. The average score across research samples is approximately 6.2 out of 16.
💚 0–4: Low
Few narcissistic traits. Empathy and modesty are prominent. May struggle with self-advocacy.
👤 5–8: Moderate
Healthy range. Confident and assertive without significant entitlement. Average for most adults.
⚠️ 9–12: Elevated
Noticeably above average. Narcissistic traits are influencing behaviour. Reflection is valuable.
🚨 13–16: High
Strongly elevated. Professional reflection recommended. Does not diagnose NPD.
How to Take This Test
- Read both statements in each question carefully.
- Choose the one that describes you better — even if neither fits perfectly.
- Try not to overthink. Your first instinct is usually most revealing.
- Answer all 16 questions for an accurate score.
- Click See My Narcissism Score for your result and full explanation.
- Read the interpretation, strengths, watch points, and growth suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is narcissism?
Narcissism refers to a personality trait characterised by an inflated sense of self-importance, a strong need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. At subclinical levels it is a normal personality dimension. At extreme levels it may indicate Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which requires professional diagnosis.
What is the NPI-16?
The NPI-16 is a validated 16-item short form of the original Narcissistic Personality Inventory, developed by Ames, Rose and Anderson in 2006. It is widely used in research to measure narcissistic traits in non-clinical populations. The average score in research samples is approximately 6.2 out of 16.
Does a high score mean I have Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
No. This test measures narcissistic traits on a spectrum, not Narcissistic Personality Disorder. NPD is a clinical diagnosis that can only be made by a qualified mental health professional through a thorough assessment. Many people score highly on narcissism measures without meeting the criteria for NPD.
Can narcissistic traits change over time?
Yes. Research shows that narcissistic traits tend to decrease naturally with age. Therapy - particularly schema therapy and psychodynamic approaches - can also help people develop more empathy and reduce entitlement patterns.
What is the difference between narcissism and high self-esteem?
Healthy self-esteem is stable and does not require constant external validation. Narcissism, by contrast, involves a fragile underlying self-image that depends heavily on admiration and superiority over others. High self-esteem is associated with genuine security; high narcissism is associated with defensiveness and entitlement.
Is narcissism more common in men or women?
Research generally finds that men score slightly higher than women on narcissism measures, particularly on dimensions of authority and entitlement. However, narcissistic traits are present across all genders, and the difference in averages is modest.
Why do narcissists struggle to recognise their own narcissism?
Narcissistic traits include a tendency to interpret personal qualities positively and to externalise blame. The same cognitive patterns that produce grandiosity also make it difficult to accept unflattering self-assessments. This is part of why self-awareness in high scorers is rare but genuinely valuable.
What causes narcissistic traits to develop?
Research points to multiple origins, including overvaluation by parents in childhood, inconsistent or conditional love, trauma, and temperament. Both excessive praise and harsh criticism in early life have been linked to higher narcissism in adulthood.
Can I be in a healthy relationship with someone high in narcissism?
It depends on the degree and the person's self-awareness. Subclinical narcissism does not preclude healthy relationships. However, high levels - particularly combined with low empathy and entitlement - create significant patterns that are difficult to sustain without professional support.
Is this test accurate?
The NPI-16 is a validated research instrument with good psychometric properties. However, self-report measures of narcissism have an inherent limitation: high narcissism is associated with positive self-presentation bias. Treat your result as a useful self-reflection tool, not a definitive assessment.