Can narcissistic personality disorder NPD be mixed with Avoidant AvPD?

Yes. Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and Avoidant personality disorder (AvPD) are both personality disorders that could possibly be mixed. While NPD is characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy, AvPD is characterized by extreme shyness, feelings of inadequacy, and a fear of rejection. Although NPD and AvPD may appear contradictory, they can also exist in a single individual, resulting in a complex profile. Here's how both disorders can coexist:

Covert Narcissism: Some people with Narcissistic personality disorder display "covert narcissism," which involves a combination of NPD traits and low self-esteem. Individuals with this sub-type of NPD may appear humble and outwardly shy or insecure. Still, they have an underlying sense of superiority and seek admiration and attention.

Defense Mechanism: Some individuals with Avoidant personality disorder may develop narcissistic traits as a defense mechanism. By adopting a façade of self-importance and self-admiration, they attempt to compensate for their feelings of inadequacy and to protect their fragile self-esteem.

Grandiosity to Cope: People with AvPD may occasionally exhibit grandiosity to compensate for their underlying sense of inferiority and to boost their self-image. This grandiosity is usually brief and more compensatory rather than a genuine belief in one's superiority.

Sensitivity and Rejection: Both NPD and AvPD can lead to a heightened sensitivity to criticism or rejection. People with these disorders may react defensively or withdraw to avoid potential humiliation.

Fear of Intimacy: People with both disorders may share a fear of intimacy due to their fear of rejection or inadequacy. They might avoid close relationships or sabotage them due to their conflicting needs.

While narcissistic and avoidant personality traits may coexist in an individual, it's important to note that each case is unique, and the manifestation and severity of symptoms may vary. Diagnosis of such complex personality profiles would require a thorough evaluation by a qualified mental health professional.