Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

A grandiose sense of self-importance and fantasies of unlimited success may indicate which personality disorder?

1. Borderline personality disorder

2. Narcissistic personality disorder

3. Antisocial personality disorder

4. Histrionic personality disorder

The correct answer is: Narcissistic personality disorder

The indication of a grandiose sense of self-importance and fantasies of unlimited success is most closely associated with narcissistic personality disorder. Individuals with this disorder often have an inflated sense of their own significance and possess strong fantasies about achieving great success, power, beauty, or ideal love. They may believe that they are special or unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other high-status individuals. This self-centered perspective can lead to difficulties in maintaining healthy relationships, as they often lack empathy for others and may exploit relationships to meet their own needs. In contrast, borderline personality disorder is characterized by instability in moods, behaviors, self-image, and functioning, rather than a pervasive sense of grandiosity. Antisocial personality disorder involves a pattern of disregard for the rights of others and does not primarily focus on self-importance. Histrionic personality disorder features attention-seeking behaviors and emotionality, which differ significantly from the core traits of grandiosity and the pursuit of unlimited success found in narcissistic personality disorder. Therefore, the traits described in the question align specifically with narcissistic personality disorder.