The Hidden Narcissism of Type 4 Enneagram

A kind of “narcissism” that is conveyed indirectly

Narcissistic behavior can be seen in 4s, but it may not be what you think of when you think of “narcissism.”

Narcissism is defined by the dictionary as “selfishness, involving a sense of entitlement, a lack of empathy, and a need for admiration, as characterizing a personality type.” When we think of narcissism, we typically picture selfishness that disregards the feelings of others, which can show up as hurtful or inconsiderate actions toward others or simply a “tunnel vision” focus on one’s needs and wants that excludes others and comes across as self-centered — which it is.

Like all other types, 4s lie on a continuum of health, according to the Riso Hudson Enneagram system. There might be a huge disparity in psychological health between two individuals of the same type — a gap the size of a canyon.

Some 4s are very helpful and altruistic; they are the antithesis of narcissism. Therefore, generalizations about 4’s being narcissistic would not be accurate.

However, we may argue that 4’s can be so preoccupied with their own feelings and “problems” that they fail to see the struggles of others. That’s the 4’s narcissism. According to Riso Hudson, it is conveyed “indirectly.”