Narcissism can range from healthy self-esteem to the severe traits of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Key indicators of NPD include a lack of empathy, a sense of entitlement, and a need for excessive admiration. As narcissism exists on a continuum, those exhibiting more severe traits may also display sociopathic behaviors, making them particularly dangerous. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for identifying and navigating relationships with narcissists.