I think there is a huge difference between people with full-blown NPD and people with some NPD traits. I have exhibited all of the NPD traits at one time or other... But, I also want relationships, and I've attempted suicide (over 20 years ago), and it appears that those two things are atypical for NPD's.

Sometimes, it appears I've developed some NPD traits, as a reaction against some experiences. I even recall people telling me I needed to have more self-confidence and that I should care less about what people said..So, perhaps it's their fault I'm like this, now.. lol. Although, I don't remember ever feeling compassion for others, either. I still remember the boy in the wheelchair in kindergarten. I was jealous of him, because he had a cool chair, and he got special attention.

But, perhaps I'm being too hard on myself. I'm married, and my wife has been through some tough times, and I care about her.... I'd like to be just a person with BPD traits, but my T got into my head with his suggestion that I have NPD traits.

I did have a very crappy childhood, with a cruel mother... I don't remember anything good about her.