Here's what you need to know about sexual narcissists and how to spot them. 

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual doesn't classify narcissism into different types, but the concept of sexual narcissism has been demonstrated by several research studies. The Sexual Narcissism Scale1 used to measure this characteristic includes four traits:

Unsurprisingly, a 2013 study2 published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found marriages involving sexual narcissists tend to have lower sexual satisfaction and lower marital satisfaction. Other research3 has identified sexual narcissism as a characteristic of borderline and histrionic personality disorders.

Ghosting after sex is a common behavior of sexual narcissists, says Santan, since they've already gotten the validation they sought from the encounter. In an ongoing relationship, physically leaving the house or room after sex is more common. "Sexual narcissists will often be very charming and flattering until they get what they want. Then they will go back to ignoring and neglecting their partners," he says. 

Sexual narcissism has been linked with sexual abuse and aggression. A study in the Archives of Sexual Behavior1 found that men with traits of sexual narcissism were more likely to commit unwanted sexual contact, sexual coercion, and rape. 

Sexual narcissists often exhibit compulsive behavior around sex, which can include unsafe sex and compulsive porn usage that interferes with their lives, says Neidich. "Sexual narcissists are often obsessed with their bedroom 'conquests' and are more interested in quantity over quality," says Santan. 

Sexual narcissists' compulsions can also include serial infidelity. A 2014 study4 in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found sexual narcissists are more likely to cheat in marriage. And they'll often cheat without remorse, Neidich adds: "Within a relationship, this will also typically involve blaming the partner, as narcissists are incapable of taking responsibility for their behavior."

"Sex isn't about connection for the sexual narcissist—it's about domination, self-gratification, and power," Santan explains. "The partner of someone who admires their own sexual prowess and/or is obsessed with their sexual performance will notice that the sexual narcissist isn't emotionally present during sexual intimacy. They will feel as if the experience was devoid of emotional connection." 

Some sexual narcissists will even gaslight you into believing you wanted sex that you were manipulated into, says Santan. They might also accuse partners of flirting with others, cheating, or being narcissists in order to deflect blame from themselves. 

Sexual narcissists use sex to gain approval, so they may behave charmingly, romantically, and even seemingly generously in order to gain praise and admiration, says Santan.

RELATED STORY: How To Spot Narcissistic Abuse: 15 Behaviors & Warning Signs

A 2015 study5 in Violence Against Women found that college men with narcissistic traits were more likely to have committed sexual assault. Another study6 in the Archives of Sexual Behavior linked narcissism with sexual coercion committed by women as well. 

If someone you're involved with romantically or sexually is exhibiting signs of sexual narcissism, it's best to break up with the narcissist as soon as possible. It may be helpful to see a therapist to work through any lingering emotional wounds after your narcissist breakup and set the stage for future healthy relationships.