Free Narcissism Test (NPI-16)
Find out where you sit on the narcissism spectrum — free, anonymous, instant. Takes 5–7 minutes.
NPI-16 — Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Short Form)
NPI-16 — Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Short Form)
The NPI-16 is a scientifically validated short form of the NPI-40, screening for narcissistic personality traits via 16 forced-choice statement pairs. Scores range 0–16. Free and anonymous on MatchyMatch.
- 16 forced-choice statement pairs — validated short form of the NPI-40
- Time: 5–7 minutes to complete
- 100% free and anonymous — no email or account required
- 5 score bands from low (0–3) to high (13–16)
- Measures the trait — does not diagnose Narcissistic Personality Disorder
About the narcissism test
Narcissism is a personality trait that exists on a spectrum. A moderate level can be healthy (self-confidence, ambition); very high levels can affect close relationships and wellbeing.
The NPI-16 helps you see where you sit on that spectrum and whether your narcissistic traits are within typical limits or worth looking at more closely.
Time
5–7 minutes
Format
16 statement pairs
Score
0–16 points
Validation
Peer-reviewed instrument
Note: This test measures a personality trait. It does not diagnose Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), which requires a clinical assessment.
Why take the narcissism test?
Self-knowledge
Understand your personality more clearly
Instant, anonymous result
No email, no waiting, no account
Personalised recommendations
Practical pointers for personal development
Objective perspective
See how you compare with the population average
What does the NPI-16 measure?
Authority
Tendency to seek leadership and control
Exhibitionism
Need to be at the centre of attention
Superiority
Feeling special or better than others
Entitlement
Expectation of special treatment
Exploitativeness
Tendency to use others for personal goals
Self-sufficiency
Excessive confidence in your own abilities
Sample statements from the test
Exhibitionism · Need for attention
A.I really like to be the centre of attention.
B.It makes me uncomfortable to be the centre of attention.
Superiority · Sense of uniqueness
A.I am no better or worse than most people.
B.I think I am a special person.
Entitlement · Expectation of respect
A.I usually get the respect that I deserve.
B.I insist upon getting the respect that is due me.
Authority · Desire for control
A.I don't mind following orders.
B.I like having authority over people.
Score bands (0–16)
Frequently asked questions
What is the NPI-16 narcissism test?
The NPI-16 (Narcissistic Personality Inventory — Short Form) is a scientifically validated questionnaire that screens for narcissistic personality traits. It is the short form of the original NPI-40 by Raskin and Hall, retaining good reliability and validity. Developed by Ames, Rose & Anderson (2006).
What does the NPI-16 measure?
The NPI-16 measures narcissistic traits across several facets: authority (desire to lead), exhibitionism (need for attention), superiority (feeling special), entitlement (expecting special treatment), exploitativeness, and self-sufficiency.
How long does the test take?
About 5–7 minutes. You see 16 forced-choice pairs of statements; for each pair, pick the one that describes you best. Results are instant.
Is narcissism always a bad thing?
Not at all. A moderate level of narcissistic traits — healthy self-confidence and ambition — can be adaptive. The trait becomes problematic when it is very high and starts to impair your relationships or social functioning. The NPI-16 helps you see where you sit on the spectrum.
Whats the difference between narcissism and self-confidence?
Healthy self-confidence means accepting your strengths and limitations. Narcissism, in the clinical sense, involves a sense of superiority, a constant need for admiration, and difficulty empathising with others. The NPI-16 is a useful screener for the trait — not a clinical diagnosis.
Does the NPI-16 diagnose Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
No. The NPI-16 measures narcissistic traits across the normal range — it does not diagnose Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). NPD can only be diagnosed by a qualified clinician (psychiatrist or clinical psychologist) following a full clinical assessment, typically against ICD-11 or DSM-5 criteria.
What if my score is high?
A high score isn't automatically problematic — context matters. If narcissistic traits are affecting your relationships or wellbeing, a therapist can help you build empathy and form more authentic connections. In the UK, you can self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies, ask your GP, or look for a BACP- or UKCP-registered private therapist.
Is the test free and anonymous?
Yes — 100% free and anonymous. No name, email, or account is required. Your answers stay private and your results are shown instantly.
Ready to learn more about your personality?
Start the NPI-16 now and get instant results with personalised recommendations.
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