Which personality disorder is characterized by a lack of empathy and manipulative behavior?

The personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy and manipulative behavior is narcissistic personality disorder. Individuals with this disorder often have an inflated sense of self-importance and a preoccupation with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love. They frequently demand excessive admiration and often exploit interpersonal relationships to achieve their own needs, which reflects their lack of empathy.

This manipulative aspect is seen in how they may use others as tools to bolster their self-esteem or to fulfill their desires, showing a disregard for the feelings and needs of those around them. Their inability to empathize can lead to conflicts and strained relationships, as they often cannot relate to others' emotional experiences or perspectives.

While other personality disorders listed can have features that may involve manipulation or relationship difficulties, the combination of an extreme lack of empathy and the explicit manipulative behavior align most closely with narcissistic personality disorder.