Narcissistic neuroticism (AKA vulnerability) is related to a more fragile and contingent self-esteem, negative emotionality/emotional impairment, and experiences of shame and other self-conscious emotions. This factor uniquely characterizes vulnerable narcissism and is often synonymous with psychological distress but is also associated with interpersonal impairments.

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In recent years, three factor models of narcissism have emerged, which have further clarified its core components. This model is composed of antagonism, agentic extraversion, and narcissistic neuroticism. Individuals with NPD have high scores in all three factors. 

The three factor model demonstrates both what's shared across the dimensions of narcissism and what's unique to grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. It also shows the distinct relationship between narcissism and self esteem, which has been a gray area in the past. 

Three Factor Model of Narcissism

Miller, J. D., Back, M. D., & Lynam, D. R. (2021). Corrigendum: Narcissism Today: What We Know and What We Need to Learn. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 30(6), 519–525. https://doi.org/10.1177/09637214221086630

Narcissism Today: What We Know and What We Need to Learn

Within the DSM-5's alternative model for personality disorders, antagonism is a key personality trait domain. It is characterized by behaviors such as a disregard for the needs of others, manipulativeness, and deceitfulness. This trait is considered a predominant feature of antisocial personality disorder in this model.

Antagonism

Agentic extraversion (AKA admiration or grandiosity) is a more adaptive factor in that it causes the narcissistic individual fewer interpersonal problems. It's associated with assertiveness, leadership, high self-esteem, and a tendency to be proactive rather than reactive and to be motivated by reward more than punishment.

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