The three types of narcissism
Grandiose narcissism is the best known: overflowing confidence, need for admiration, a tendency to dominate and little empathy. Vulnerable or covert narcissism, by contrast, comes from insecurity: hypersensitivity to criticism, resentment, a feeling that the world is unfair and a constant need for reassurance.
Communal narcissism, described by psychologist Jochen Gebauer in 2012, is the hardest to detect: the person needs to feel like the kindest, most generous or most devoted, and seeks recognition through what they do for others. The help is real, but it's also a stage.
Why the type matters
Each type creates different dynamics in a couple: the grandiose type tends to impose, the covert type to guilt-trip and the communal type to make you feel indebted. Identifying the pattern helps you name what you feel and set concrete boundaries.
This test doesn't diagnose anyone: narcissistic personality disorder can only be assessed by a professional. Use it as a starting point for reflection.