A new study, published in the online journal PLOS One, validated the use of a single question to identify a narcissist. The single question, evaluated as a tool called the Single Item Narcissism Scale (SINS), was demonstrated as an effective measurement across 11 independent studies using a total of 2,250 participants. SINS was valid in a variety of population demographics, accounting for personality and interpersonal factors.

LiveScience reveals that the one question is simple. It asks the individual if they are or are not a narcissist. Though it seems too simple to work, it turns out that narcissists generally have no issue admitting that they are what they are. These people have an inflated sense of self that allows them to acknowledge that they are narcissists when asked in a straightforward manner.

The research team notes that a narcissistic personality is characterized by grandiosity, entitlement, and low empathy. According to the Mayo Clinic, narcissism is a personality disorder in which people believe they superior to others, having little regard for others’ feelings. Personality disorders are conditions in which people have traits that cause them to feel and behave in socially distressing ways, limiting their ability to function in relationships and in other areas of their life, such as work or school.

Trends in the prevalence of narcissistic personality disorder or traits have been identified. People in Western countries rate higher on narcissistic traits than do those in Eastern nations. Also, individuals from the millennial generation are also more likely to have these traits, particularly in the U.S. Narcissism can be damaging in a lot of ways, but there are a number of benefits, particularly in the short term. For instance, overconfidence can help people land a job or attract a partner, and some studies suggest that narcissists make good leaders.