Do People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) Shoplift More Than Other People?

Yes, individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) are more likely to engage in shoplifting compared to the general population. This behavior stems from a combination of entitlement, poor boundary recognition, and a lack of accountability. By shoplifting, individuals with NPD believe they are entitled to the property, reflecting a fundamental sense of entitlement they cannot recognize as a boundary violation. Their poor boundary recognition leads to lack of empathy towards the shop owner and a belief in their own actions as unaccountable.

The Comparison between NPD and Kleptomania

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) can sometimes coexist with a condition known as kleptomania. Both conditions involve impulsive behaviors but are distinct. It is worth noting that the criteria for shoplifting can either point to a diagnosis of ASPD (Antisocial Personality Disorder) or kleptomaniacal behavior.

The Role of Moral Standards in Shoplifting

Narcissists are more prone to shoplifting because their sense of right and wrong is based on whether their will is being met. If an item piques their interest, their moral standard dictates that it is acceptable to steal it, provided no risks or consequences arise. In contrast, a person with a high moral standard adheres to the Golden Rule, which asserts that one should not do to others what they wouldn't want done to themselves. Such a standard would lead to a natural avoidance of stealing, as it would violate the individual's ethical ideals.

Herein lies a crucial distinction: a person with a high moral standard can be trusted because they uphold universal ethical principles. On the other hand, a narcissist’s actions are driven by self-interest, leading to unpredictable and potentially harmful behavior. This makes them less reliable and more likely to engage in unethical or illegal activities like shoplifting.

The Misconception of Narcissism as a Disorder

It is a misconception to label narcissism as a disorder. If such a condition is indeed a disorder, then we must ask: what defines normalcy? Psychologists do offer differing ideologies, but who has the authority to determine what is truly the norm? Looking at the broader moral spectrum, we find that no one standard can be universally accepted as the correct one.

From a logical and empirical standpoint, narcissism is a consistent and predictable behavior driven by a specific set of core values. Since these values are reasonable and logical within their context, they do not qualify as a disorder. However, these values may clash with higher moral standards that prioritize empathy and societal norms. Therefore, the difference between narcissism and other disorders lies in the framework within which these behaviors are perceived and judged.

Antisocial Behavior and Narcissism

Many people confuse antisocial behavior with narcissistic behavior, which is a common misconception. While it is true that narcissists often lack empathy, the individuals I have encountered demonstrate a deep commitment to their beliefs and norms, sometimes bordering on obsession. This intense adherence to personal standards is more characteristic of individuals with ASPD (Antisocial Personality Disorder), who often exhibit both antisocial and narcissistic traits.

Due to the overlap in behavior, it is not surprising that some individuals mistakenly equate antisocial behavior with narcissism. However, it is essential to understand that the underlying motivations and patterns are distinct. Antisocial individuals act in line with their personal moral standards, which may differ significantly from societal norms, whereas narcissists prioritize their own needs and desires, often at the expense of others' feelings and rights.

Conclusion

Understanding the dynamics between narcissistic personality disorder and shoplifting involves recognizing the role of personal moral standards and boundary recognition. Individuals with NPD are more likely to shoplift due to their sense of entitlement and lack of accountability, behaviors that are driven by their personal moral compass. While it is incorrect to label narcissism as a disorder, it is important to acknowledge the differences between narcissistic and antisocial behaviors, which often coexist but are not identical.