Over the next several months, we are going to be trying something new with our social work blogs to highlight the differences in the types of questions that show up on the ASWB exam. One month we are going to do a recall question of a topic. The next month, we are going to take the same topic, but do a reasoning question on that topic. Both the LMSW and LCSW exams have more reasoning than recall, however, you definitely want to be prepared for both. This month and next month, we are exploring the topic of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Narcissistic personality disorder is marked by pervasive grandiosity, self-importance, and entitlement. People with this disorder also display a lack of empathy for others. With NPD, you see people who view themselves as superior, special, and unique. They often exaggerate achievements and fantasize about unlimited power, success, and brilliance.
How will Narcissistic Personality Disorder be tested?
There are several ways NPD could be tested on the exam. You could see a recall question asking about the criteria of NPD. You could also see an application question that could, for example, give symptoms of this personality disorder and have you identify which disorder it is. Or you could see a reasoning based question, where you are working with a client with symptoms of NPD and have it ask what to do FIRST/NEXT or what is MOST important to consider.
ASWB Practice Question:
All of the following are symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder EXCEPT:
A. A grandiose pattern of self importance
B. Reckless disregard for safety of self or others
C. Preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, and brilliance
D. Lack of empathy for others
(Scroll for answer and rationale)
The correct answer is B: Reckless disregard for safety of self or others. All of the other answer options represent criteria of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. B is not indicative of NPD; rather, this is criteria of Antisocial Personality Disorder. Many people struggle to differentiate between these two personality disorders. In April we will be discussing Antisocial Personality Disorder and highlighting how it differs in presentation and symptomatology from NPD.
ASWB Masters and Clinical Exam Preparation
How did you do with this month's recall question on Narcissistic Personality Disorder? Whether you aced it or need some extra practice, TDC's LMSW and LCSW exam prep programs are here to help prepare you for this topic, other personality disorders, and everything else you need to be successful on your exam. If you're ready to pass your exam in 2021, we're here to help. TDC has assisted THOUSANDS of social workers in passing their ASWB exams; are you next?