When you were a kid, did one of your parents neglect you, act jealous, or frequently send you on guilt trips?
If so, you might have been dealing with a narcissist: a person who has a grandiose sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy.
There are two main types of narcissism. Overt narcissists think they are brilliant and superior to others. They dominate and exploit relationships, compete fiercely with others, and can be highly emotional and aggressive.
The second type, covert narcissists, tend to be subtler because they hide their self-involvement. They are sensitive to criticism and seek pity. They unleash their aggressiveness only in private, punishing people in backhand ways.
Why does it matter? Adult children of narcissistic parents often have emotional issues stemming from the neglect they experience. Start sorting things out with our Instaread on Narcissistic Mothers.
