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Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS)

Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS) Test

See whether sensitivity and self doubt may mask covert narcissistic traits in about 2 minutes. Ten quick items can guide self insight and help tailor counseling or coaching.

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Questions: 102 minutes

Hi! My name is Freudly, i am an AI therapist, I will give you an interpretation of the test after you complete it.

08:30

October 2, 2025

October 2, 2025
Material has been updated

October 2, 2025
Material has been published

26,891 view

1,876 completions

1,572 likes

Verified by Daniel Hall

Psychologist with 25 years of experience

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How the Scales are Structured

example score

27/50

Sensitive Narcissism (SN)

Measures covert (hypersensitive) narcissistic vulnerability, especially sensitivity to criticism and concerns about recognition and self-worth.

Lower sensitivity

Moderate sensitivity

Higher sensitivity

10 – 22: Lower sensitivity | 23 – 35: Moderate sensitivity | 36 – 50: Higher sensitivity

A score of 27 falls in the Moderate sensitivity range, suggesting a noticeable but not extreme tendency toward sensitivity to criticism and internal concerns about recognition.

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DATA-BASED USER COHORTS

Who Usually Takes This Test?

Sensitive to criticism

41%OF USERS

People who feel easily hurt by feedback and want to understand whether their reactions come from hidden insecurity or vulnerable self-focus.

Therapy and coaching clients

34%OF USERS

People already working on self-esteem, relationships, or emotional regulation who want a quick check for covert narcissistic patterns.

Partners and close friends

25%OF USERS

People trying to make sense of a loved one who seems modest or shy but reacts strongly to perceived slights, rejection, or disappointment.

BASED ON AGGREGATED, ANONYMIZED DATA FROM TENS OF THOUSANDS OF FREUDLY USERS.

RESULTS YOU CAN ACTUALLY USE

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Once you complete the test, your results are compared with real-world data from people in your country.
Below is a preview of how scores are typically distributed across each scale.

Sensitive Narcissism Scale (SNS)

Average

23.5

Normal range

18.5 — 28.5

min.

max.

Majority

This curve shows how scores are typically distributed.
Once you complete the test, your result will appear on the scale so you can see how you compare.

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CLEAR ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this questionnaire measure?

It measures narcissistic vulnerability, including sensitivity to criticism, shame, and self-doubt. It focuses on reactions that are often private rather than openly attention-seeking.

What does it not measure?

It does not assess grandiose narcissism such as overt entitlement, dominance, or showy self-importance. Results should not be used as a general measure of all narcissistic traits.

How long does it take and how many items are included?

Completion typically takes about 2 minutes. The questionnaire includes 10 items.

How should responses be selected?

Select the option that best describes typical thoughts, feelings, or reactions, not an unusual day. Use the first response that fits without overanalyzing.

How should results be interpreted?

Scores indicate relative level of hypersensitive narcissistic features and are not a diagnosis. Interpretation is most appropriate when considered with other information and professional judgment.

WHAT THE TEST MEASURES

About This Assessment

Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS) Test - Symptoms and Signs

narcissism

This brief self-report measure is designed to screen for features commonly described as vulnerable or hypersensitive narcissism. The Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS) uses 10 items and typically takes about 2 minutes to complete.

Items assess sensitivity to criticism, self-consciousness, and interpersonal reactivity associated with a more covert narcissistic presentation, and it is not intended to quantify grandiose narcissism. psytests.org (2020) is listed as the source. The Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS) may be used in clinical and research contexts as an adjunct to broader assessment, with results interpreted in conjunction with clinical interview and other measures.

Author: psytests.org (2020)

Literature: Hendin, H. M., & Cheek, J. M. Assessing hypersensitive narcissism: A reexamination of Murray’s Narcissism Scale. Journal of Research in Personality. 1997.; Pincus, A. L., & Lukowitsky, M. R. Pathological narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology. 2010.

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