Why Psychologists See Trump As Stubborn, Aggressive And Narcissistic

Last Updated:August 14, 2025, 15:42 IST

According to Psychology Today, Trump’s personality is unusual, insolent, and aggressive. Experts say his behavior shows narcissistic, antisocial, and paranoid traits

Psychologist Dan McAdams notes that Donald Trump rarely reflects deeply, instead living in the present and focusing on surface-level considerations. (AP/File)

Many renowned psychologists and psychiatrists have conducted mental analyses of Donald Trump, primarily based on his public behaviour and statements without meeting him personally. Experts have linked Trump’s behaviour to symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder, characterised by self-centeredness and a lack of empathy for others.

Psychologists have described Trump’s mental state as indicative of psychopathic personality disorder, which includes a lack of guilt or shame, extreme impulsiveness, and a desire to control others. Psychoanalyst Dan McAdams claimed Trump displays extraordinary grandiosity and a minimal tendency to compromise.

Psychiatrists like John Gartner have labelled Trump a “malignant narcissist", a term denoting self-importance, aggression, dishonesty, and a lack of empathy. McAdams also referred to Trump as an “episodic man," always living in the present moment without considering history or the future. In the book “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump" edited by Bandy Lee in 2017, 27 psychiatrists described Trump’s mentality as a threat to society and the world, citing a “duty to warn."

The psychology magazine “Psychology Today" conducted a psychological analysis of Donald Trump with several American psychologists. Here are their findings in question-and-answer format.

What do psychologists say about President Trump’s personality?

According to Psychology Today, President Trump’s personality is described as unusual, insolent, and aggressive, particularly since gaining immense power. Several mental health professionals have publicly suggested that his behaviour exhibits traits consistent with narcissistic, antisocial, and paranoid personality disorders.

What do psychologists say about President Trump’s childhood?

In July 2020, President Trump’s niece, clinical psychologist Mary Trump, published Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man. She wrote that Trump’s mother was self-centered and emotionally distant, while his father was devoid of warmth and empathy. According to her, Trump grew up without role models for sensitivity, compassion, or reciprocity—qualities that were discouraged, even seen as dangerous, within the family. She argues that his lifelong quest for his father’s approval shaped his unusual and abrasive personality.

Is narcissism a personality disorder, as observed in Trump?

Trump exhibits extreme narcissism, considering himself superior and seeking constant praise. He strives to remain at the forefront.

Why do traits like cunningness and cruelty appear in his behavior?

Trump’s behaviour reveals psychopathy, as evidenced by cruelty, cunningness, and a lack of empathy. His reactions are often fast and aggressive.

Why do psychologists say he may also have a mood disorder, and what are its effects?

Experts have linked Trump’s behavior to mood disorders such as hypomania, which can lead to sudden, impulsive decisions. He sometimes reacts irrationally or without reflection. Psychologists note that when faced with challenges or opposition, he often takes it personally and responds immediately, driven by his quick temper, angry outbursts, and a confrontational ‘warlike’ style.

What are the psychological reasons behind Trump’s aggression?

According to experts, Trump exhibits strong narcissistic tendencies, viewing himself as superior and seeking to remain the center of attention in all situations. As a result, he often perceives criticism or opposition as a personal attack and reacts emotionally.

His decision-making style is impulsive and emotionally charged. He frequently responds aggressively on foreign policy or political issues without thorough consideration, a pattern that fuels his aggressive behavior.

Both historical psychological theories and observations of Trump’s behavior suggest that his reactions are marked by anger and confrontation. He tends to push his point of view forcefully, which contributes to his aggressive demeanor.

Psychologist Dan McAdams notes that Trump rarely reflects deeply, instead living in the present and focusing on surface-level considerations. Some experts argue that his extreme displays of aggression or ‘madness’ may be strategic, designed to unsettle opponents and secure favorable outcomes.

How can Trump’s desire to win the Nobel Prize be analysed from a psychological perspective?

Trump’s pronounced narcissism leads him to view himself as the most important and influential leader. His pursuit of the Nobel Prize reflects this narcissism and his craving for recognition, as he seeks to portray himself as a global peacemaker and see the award as validation of his greatness.

What do individuals like Trump do when they become the head of a nation? What do psychologists say about this?

Leaders with pronounced narcissistic traits often perceive themselves as extremely important after attaining high positions. They struggle to tolerate criticism and work hard to maintain their image. This can result in aggressive and impulsive decision-making, often aimed more at protecting their personal interests or reputation than serving the national interest.

Such leaders seek credit for every achievement and prominently display it on the international stage. They publicize their decisions and successes extensively, presenting themselves as the central figure, which can escalate confrontation and aggression in diplomacy.

Psychologists note that instead of developing well-considered strategies, these leaders may make rapid, emotion-driven decisions, sometimes irrational, which can spark conflicts internally and externally, weakening cooperation and alliances.

Additionally, narcissistic leadership fosters deep societal polarization. Their style generates intense enthusiasm among supporters but creates fear and intolerance among opposition parties and minorities, threatening political stability and unity. Erratic mood swings and impulsive decisions can further destabilize national and global policies.

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