Grandiosity
Inflated self-esteem or exaggerated sense of importance, power, or abilities, often symptomatic of manic episodes or certain personality disorders.
Full Definition
Grandiosity refers to an unrealistic sense of superiority, grandiose beliefs about one's importance, power, knowledge, or abilities that are not supported by reality. This symptom is commonly observed in manic or hypomanic episodes of bipolar disorder, where patients may believe they have special powers, are famous, or have extraordinary talents. Grandiosity can also be present in narcissistic personality disorder, delusional disorders, or substance-induced states. The degree of grandiosity can range from inflated self-confidence to frank delusions of grandeur. Clinicians assess this symptom as part of mental status examinations and mood episode criteria.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between normal confidence and pathological grandiosity based on the degree of reality distortion.
In Context
- "The patient's grandiosity was evident in his belief that he was chosen by God to save the world." — psychiatric assessment
- "Treatment goals included reducing grandiose thinking and improving reality testing." — treatment plan