Two Social Landscapes

Psychology Today | 07.02.2026 04:10
I am oftentimes asked whether autistic individuals exhibit narcissistic characteristics. Autism and narcissism are distinct conditions that are often misunderstood and stigmatised. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how an individual processes information, experiences sensory stimuli, and communicates, evident from early in life. Conversely, narcissistic traits are patterns of relational behaviour widely believed to be influenced by early emotional experiences.