A god complex is a pattern of behavior in which an individual believes they have exceptional power, ability, infallibility, influence, and are superior to others. It is characterized by consistently inflated feelings of personal ability, privilege, or infallibility, and the person is highly dogmatic in their views, meaning they speak of their personal opinions as though they were unquestionably correct. Someone with a god complex may exhibit no regard for the conventions and demands of society, and may request special consideration or privileges.

A god complex is not a clinical term nor diagnosable disorder and does not appear in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The recognized diagnostic name for the behaviors associated with a god complex is narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) . However, having a god complex doesnt necessarily mean that someone has NPD.

Some signs of a god complex include extreme entitlement and arrogance, difficulty relating in a collaborative way with others, an intense need for praise, and emotional fragility and a quick temper. People with a god complex may also have been put on a privileged pedestal as a child and taught that the world is theirs and everyone else is just living in it.

It is important to note that having a god complex is not a desirable trait, despite the term being used loosely in popular culture as a source of empowerment, self-love, and confidence. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have a god complex, it is important to seek professional help to manage it going forward.