According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV), negative or unstable self - perceptions are a key component in the diagnostic
criteria of major depressive disorders, manic and hypomanic episodes, dysthymic disorders, dissociative disorders, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and in
personality disorders, such as borderline,
narcissistic and avoidant behavior.
However, if an individual has
personality features that meet
criteria for one or more
personality disorders in addition to
narcissistic personality disorder, all can be diagnosed.