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Narcissism and romantic relationships: Understanding the paradox

Authors:
THE
HANDBOOK
OF
NARCISSISM
AND
NARCISSISTIC
PERSONALITY
DISORDER
Theoretical
Approaches,
Empirical
Findings,
and Treatments
Edited
by
W
Keith
Campbell
and
Joshua
D.
Miller
WILEY
John
Wiley
&
Sons,
Inc.
Chapter
30
•tandin”
Ii
1
jted
\pei.c.flLL
j
rush
or
i
:V4
R
CISSIS1I
A
ND
ROMAN
TIC
i1
RELA
TJONSHIPS
als
ti
\arious
C
•ti
itito’
d
L”iiderstandiiig
(lie
Paradox
unphelL
I
“it
B.
Bnn’c
1/
nih
11
keith
(iiiiphel1
i9
1.
\
aft
ne.
,nid
ci
k-!o\e\er.
ci
qualities
ir
process
cit
Nucissism
is
t
thorny
issue
in
romantic
relationships.
On
the
one
hand,
nareissists
are
experts
at
band
‘Sped
litliting
romantic elationships
because
they
seem
to
be
desirable relationship
partners.
On
the
a
e1•cst
mher
hand.
tnesc
relationships
are
frequently
problematic
because
they
can
he
troubled,
short—
\arc(ssi
ts
in
ed.
and
destructi’
e
to
the
ndi’
idual
dating
the
narcissist.
In
this
chapter.
we
focus
directly
an
oppoutni
on
this
paradox
‘‘I’
narcissistic
relationships.
We
begin
by
brieFly
re
ie\ing
no
models
relevant
ers
as
repol
to
narcissism
n
telationships.
the
-I:enci’
i/ca/el
(Campbell.
Brunch,
&
Finkel,
2t)06:
Campbell
&
blame
thdi
Foster.
.20t)7:
Campbell
&
Green.
2008)
and
the
(
cmtexttial
Reinji’reenient
Model
(W.
Sun,
I
)i4)
t
.impbell
&
Campbell.
200’).
and
then turn
our
attention
to
the
Chocolate
Cake
Model,
a
model
that
examines
tile
experience
of
relationships
ith
narcissists
from
the
partner’s
perspective.
throughout
thi
5
chapter,
hcn
ve
use
the
term narets.sis,n,
we
are
refirring
to
grandiose
narcis-
CON
Csin
trpically
asessed
by
the
Varcissisr/c
Perconalirv
Inventort’
(\P[
Raskin
&
Terry,
1988).
These
patterns ire
likely
to
he
different
with
vulnerable
narcissism
because
the
initial
attraction
The
(
onte
ihat
propels
nirc’Sslstic
relationships
is
lacking
in
this
ulnerable
tbrn
\hiller.
Dir,
eta!..
2010).
oflitie
or
c’
W
.ih-o
nice
that n
.tre
focusine
on
a
slice
of
the
relational
orhd
of
narcissists.
and
several
Last
.
“st
other
chaptr’
‘n
this
.
oltinte
address related
and
important
issues
e.g..
sexuality
[Chapter
311.
sluiss.
croci
Ic
idcr.ship
[(
iitpter
5].
matine
strategtcs
[Chapter
I
‘.1]
t.
This
is
bee,
Turkhenne
ships.
‘shel
.C
lN(
V
NHN)EL
relation.Ilml
postr.c
I
e
\
ecuc:
\
lode!
‘nsiclcrs
“aft
nsntic
romantic
elatiorish
ps
to
he
part
d
an
o
erall
selt
Foutor.
1
Stem.
1
at
n.
i’inttc
tclati
ilip
sense
a
tunction.il
ole
in
the
narcissist’s
life
that
Iikahi
a’
I,lr
:c
m’ai
‘tIter
elational
and
bcha
jamal
processes..
\ccurling
ri
the
model,
there
are
at
negati
is
land
n”aI
qiialitme;
th
0
t
are
ecntral
to
nticmsLin:
()
a
ti,cus
on
agency
rather
than
on
ship
oiomilmini’n
‘cc.
(
nnpbchh.
I’))’):
(
nnpbell
et
di.,
21)00:
C
iniphell
&
Foster.
2O0:
Campbell.
i
i
I
.ter.
&
(
nikeI.
2)02.
(.iiimpbell
&
Green,
21)081.
2
inflated
selts
ess
(
bItt
&
Robins,
1904),
tiiP:’p
I
.cItCrç.g)
iii
pri’ce’scs
hat
ne
k’:ued
on
cainmne
md
maitmtaimnnp
sC!!
cstceni
(Campbell.
Ih.it
0’
g
kkin.
\o’,
.ek.
&
I
h’oan.
lOll
di
entitLnient
1
amphcll.
Ilomimcci.
‘Shelton.
Lxlmne. &
‘dC
mnlum’
n
2
‘li.
mmt
I
I
it
ppr’ach-orientatmon
I
F’tcr
&
lrinnl.
2UtIXi.
i.
ho
‘CL’
timm,tamm,’,’r
ii
ma
,t’1,s
at’
r,mrcnnmn
re
i:tLcd
to
mhr’e
lnterrchil[e,l
processes
jitrit’y
‘rc’
a’
a
ts
.
1:tmm,’in”
hot
pci’t
‘ctes
‘“c’ehf
,oe
inrictise
han otlersb.
‘‘m
i
‘mI
3
acnce.
Jmam
“ma.
sod,
1
d\mm.a’,ersion
.
nd
m!1L’lJerolltdI
5
tratcgtcs
romi
a.
pai’mirs.
eIt-pronli’tm
n
I.
(
mm’m
tem’t
ss
ith
the
concept
lI
si
.
ihcse
Lami
‘id
‘,aI
,‘mlirdmnm
I
or
Ls:mpie.
ii’
nmsts
pcreese
dmemnseis
es
t
e
highly
mi
ft
iCti’
.
.c
Is’’
.s
hen
o’PbIt1C(l
a
ith
s’cial
etra,.’rst,in
mnd
elarin,
ism
5
t
‘he
,tdi’diSSiSl
itt
t
“,,
a
‘44
Narcissism
arid
Romantic
Ic1atjonshit
s
34
“landing”
the
lugh-status
trophy
partner
This,
in
turn,
remibrces
narcissists’ confidence
ar
u
inflated
self-views.
when
this system
is
running
smoothl
tar
the
narcissist.
the
outcome
is
th
experleTice
of
“narcissistic
esteem.”
which
is
a
sense
of
self-esteem
that
is
akin
to
experiencing
a
rush
or
a
high
(Baumeister
&
Vohs.
2001
and
is
linked
to
social
dominance
(Brown
&
Zeigler
Hill.
2004).
and
feelings
of
pride
(Tracy
&
Robins, 2004)
An
extension
of
the
Agency
Model
(Campbell
&
Green.
2005>
describes
how
other individre
I
als
serve
to
“fuel”
narcissistic
self-regulation.
First,
narcissists
seek
out
admiration
from
others
in
various
contexts,
including performance
situations
(Wallace
&
Baumeisier.
2(102)
and
when
initiating dating
relationships
(Campbell,
1999).
To
this
end.
narcissists
use
a
variety
of
strate
gies.
For
example.
narcissists
use
material
goods
to
demonstrate
their
status
to
others
(Volis
&
Campbell.
2006)
and
will
brag
and show
off
in
order
to
be
in
the
spotlight
(Bus%
&
Chiodo.
1991j.
Narcissists
are
also
judged
as
likable
in
the
short term because
the)
are
outgoing.
charm
ing.
and
entertaining
(Paulhus.
1998).
and seen
as
socially
dominant
(BruncH
et
al..
20(0g.
However,
over
the
course
of
time,
narcissists
are
liked
less
and
less
as
their more
disagreeable
qualities
are
revealed
(Paulhus,
1998>.
Second. others
fuel
narcissistic
self-regulation
via the
process
of
association.
such
as
dating
a
supermodel
or
associating
with
members
of
a
populat
experts
at
band.
Specifically,
association
with
high-status
others increases narcissists’
sense
of
importance
s.
On
the
and
self-esteem
(Campbell.
1999).
Third.
narcissists
use
others
as
targets
of
social
domination.
d,
short-
Narcissists
seek
out
competition—especially
public
competition—because
winning
provides
directly
an
opportunity
for
glory
(Wallace
&
Baumeister,
2002).
Fourth
and
finally.
narcissists
use
oth
relevant
ers
as
repositories
for
dispersing
blame
or
failure.
When narcissists
fail
to
succeed,
they
readily
mpbeil
&
blame
their
failure
on
someone
else
(Campbell,
Reeder,
Sedikides,
&
Elliot,
200th
Kernis
&
del
Sun.
1994).
In
sum.
narcissists successfully
use
others
to
regulate
their
narcissistic
esteem.
.amodel
‘spective,
e
narcis-
CONTEXTUAL
REINFORCEMENT
MODEL
y,
1988).
ittracton
The
contextual
Reinforcement
Model
(W.
Campbell
&
Campbell. 2009)
focuses
on
those areas
l.
2010).
of
life
or
contexts
where
narcissists
will
be the
most successful
i.e.,
accrue
the
most
benefits
and
d
sever
least
costs).
These
are
typically
novel
or
unstable
social
contexts (e.g..
initiating
new
relation
pter
3.
ships,
emerging
as
a
leader
in
an
unstable
organization)
rather
than
in
long-term
social
contexts
This
is
because
in
the
short-term. narcissists
are liked
by others
(Ohmanns.
Friedman.
Fiedler.
&
Turkheimer,
2004:
Paulhus,
1998)
and are
therefore
usually
successful
at
initiating
new
relation
ships.
whether
they’
he
in
the
work domain
(Brunell
et al..
2008)
or
when
starting
new
romantic
relationships
(Rhodewalt
&
Eddings,
2002),
which
sene
to
reinforce
the
narcissist’s
inflated,
positive
self-view,
However,
in
the
long
run.
narcissists
are
overconfident
(Campbell.
Goodie.
&
rail self-
Foster,
2004),
make
risky and
poor
decisions
(Chatteijee
&
Hambrick,
2007).
and
become
less
life that
likable
over
time
(Hogan
&
Kaiser, 2005:
Paulhus.
1998).
Consequentl’..
over time they
are
rated
re
are
at
negatively
by
their
supervisors
(Blair.
l-loffman.
&
Heiland.
2008)
and
encounter
more
relation
rihan
oti
ship
problems
(Campbell,
2005).
ampbeil.
There
are
two
additional
elements
to
the
model. First.
the
experience
of
the
narcissist’s
reId
s.
1994).
tionship
partner
(e.g.,
friend,
employee,
dating
partner)
follows
the
same
pattern
of
outcomes
ampbdll
That
is,
the
partner
has
a
positive
initial
experience
and
ncgati
e
long-term
experience
(with
the
,xhne.
&
negative
long-term
experience
being
significantl
more
negati\e
than
the
narciscist’s
own
expe
rience),
indeed,
in
work
on
clinically
rele
ant
narcissistic
traits,
narcissism
predicted
suffering
ntrap
5
)”
experienced
by
close
others.
men
when traits
of
all
other
Clustei
H
personalit
disordcis
wete
others)’
Controlled
fur
statistically
(Miller,
Campbell,
&
Pilkonis,
2007). Second,
lith
naturally
changes
trategies
fron
the
short
term
to
the
long
term.
That
is,
short-term
contexts
generalls
evolve
into
long-term
in.
these
Contexts
as
a
matter
of
course.
As
a
result,
the
partner
will
see his
at
her
outcomes
become
sig
e
lijghb
flificantiy
more
negati
c
over
time.
1
his
is
the
natural downward
spiral
of
getting
involved with
issist
tO
a
narcissist.
346
Intra-
and
1nterpersona
Procece
CITOCOL
TE
CAKE MODEL
One
of
the
my
steriec
in
the
study
of
narcissistic
relationships
is
why
individuals
Wo
g
involved
with
narcissists
in
the
first
place.
The
Chocolate
Cake
Model
(Campbell,
2005>
fo
on
the
experience
of
the
relationship
with the
narcissist
from
the
partner’s
perspective,
We
ca
it
the
Chocolate
Cake
Model
because
eating
chocolate
cake
is
a
useful
metaphor
for
describing
this
experience.
That
is.
eating
chocolate
cake
is
tar
more
enjoyable
than
eating
a
salad,
and
is
accompanied
by
positive feelings and
a
rush
of
pleasure
when
consumed.
At
‘he
same
time,
co_
suming
chocolate
cake
comes
with
long-term
costs
(e.g..
a
sugar crash, excessive
calorie
weight
gain). Thus,
eating
chocolate
cake may
initially
seem
like
the
better
choice,
but
we
mieht
regret
it
later
when
we
are
forced
to look
at
the
longer-term
consequences
of
our
decision.
Eating
chocolate
cake
is
a
‘.ery
different
experience
than
eating
a
healthy
salad.
Although
the
salad
may
riot
be
as
initially appealing
as
the
chocolate
cake,
it
is
the
healthier choice
and
one
experience
more
positixe
long-term consequences
(i.e..
greater
sense that
one
is
“healthy,”
better
nutrition)
tbr
choosing
it
oer
the
chocolate
cake.
In
short,
chocolate
cake
is
far
better
in
the
immediate
short term
than
eating
salad, but
far
worse
in
the
long
term.
Although
we
might
not be
able
to
stop
ourselves
from
eating
the
chocolate
cake,
we
might
come
to
regret
it
later,
This
same
pat
tern
holds
with
relationships
with narcissists.
The
literature
on
narcissism
reveals that
narcissists’
relationships
are
shallow,
transitory,
anti
lacking
in
commitment
(Campbell
et al.,
2002).
Narcissists
tend
to
search
for
a
better
partner
(i,e,
‘ahe
better
deal”
or “the
trophy spouse”:
Campbell.
l909).
pay
attention
to
alternatives
to
their
current
relationship tCampbell
&
Foster.
2002),
engage
in
game-playing
while
in
a
relationship
(Campbell
et al.,
2002), date
as
a
means
for
self-enhancement (Campbell,
1999),
and
place
little, if
any,
emphasis
on
developing emotional,
intimate
relationships
with
others
(Campbell,
2005).
The
paradox
is
that
narcissists
are
successful
at
attracting
romantic partners (Campbell
&
Foster,
2002;
Campbell
et al.,
2002).
If
narcissists
are
terrible dating partners,
why
do
people
date
them?
We
suggest
that
although
narcissists
have
many negative
qualities,
they are
likely
to have
many
posi
tive
qualities
(i.e.,
charming,
high
social
status,
sexually attractive)
as
well,
at
least
in
the
short
term
(Oltmanns
et
al.,
2004;
Paulhus,
1998).
Thus,
the
metaphor
of
eating chocolate
cake
describes
this
process
well,
To
test
the
Chocolate
Cake Model,
we
asked
individuals
to
reflect
on
past dating
relationships
with
narcissistic
and
non-narcissistic
partners.
These
individuals
reported
that they
were
attracted
to
narcissists because
of
the
narcissists’
charm, popularity,
and
sexual
attractrieness
(Brunell,
Campbell.
Smith.
&
Krusernark,
2004).
By
contrast,
their attraction
to
their
non-narcissistic
partners
was
far less
exciting:
the
non-narcissistic
ex-partner
was
frequently
described
as
“nice”
(e.g..
the
boy
girl-next-door
type).
Vvhen
asked about
the
worst
part
of
the
relationship,
partici
pants
revealed
that
the
narcissistic
ex-partner
was
self-centered, materialistic,
deceptive,
and
con
trolling.
PartiLirants reported
that
they
felt
the
narcissist
used them
and
played
gaInes
with
them.
Participants indicated
that
their
perception
of
the
narcissist
ihangcd
dratically
over
the
course
ut
their
reltunhip.
md
their
—atisfacti’
ii
with
the
telatiunshtp plummeted
(see
Figure
30.ll
oiu,cqutntly,
they
reported
that they
regretted
getting
insolaed
with
the
narcissistic
ex-partIWE
in
the
first
place
because
the
relationship
took
a
large
emotional
toll.
Rarely vere
these
charac
tenstics
mentioned
when
reflecting
on
the
non-narcissistic
ex-partner,
arcissists
themclves
report
that
they
are less
committed
and
fatthful
in
their
relationshiPs
than
are
non-narcissistic
indis
iduals
tl3uss
&
Shackelford,
I
99’;
Campbell
&
Foster,
2002
Foster,
Shrira,
&
Campbell,
2006).
It
ts
probably
not
surprising,
then,
that
their
pirtflet$
S
them
in
the
same
w
a.
\\
hen
asked
how
ci
immitted
and
faithful
they
thouht
‘heir
partilera
wei
lur
t
ng
their
relatton.J]ip.
our
pirticipanis
indicated
that
the
.,irc1cststs
were ignilicantly
lesS
SO
than
the
fbi
narcn,s’
s.
I
‘see
F
cure
3(1
in
this
$ud;.
prt1ctpants
iio
ndicated
ignificanth,
ototeoceati’e
thoughts
nd
teelings
at
‘he
cmi
of
zhc’r
relation
5
hip
.
ith
the
narc1sist
than
.
ith
the
n
in-nerci
‘o’$
ee
Figure
30.e).
C
C
S
at
-
rigure
30,1
gelationshi
Figure
10.2
They
e’”ier
the
relation
fact
that
tht
when
ratine
report
regre
glad
lb
a
indicate
that
fJlep
aittd
Phi
Frir
tie5
that
ittr
qualp
ha
U2gt
tha
‘Sarciscism
and
Rornantk
Rclatrnshp
34’
1arc.,sis
LI
p*_
4saa
f
/
Beginning
of
the
Relationship
get
call
ibmg
nd
is
con..
take.
night
atmg
may
inees
tiord
ite
or
tie
to
pat-
and
(i.e.,
their
aship
Lie,
if
The
O02:
7
We
Posi
short
ribes
ships
acted
melt.
sjte
iice”
flier’
cOfl
hem
a.’.’.
rtricr
araC
Narcissist
NonNarcissist
7.
______
_________
6
ft.
C
.
3
End
of
the
Relauonchip
Figure
30.1
Participants’
Ratings
of
Hois
Satisfied
They
Were
at
the Beginning
and
End
of
tin
Relationship
7
__________
6
-
..—
Cornmttcd
Figure
30.2
Participants’
Ratings
of
the
Partner
During
the Relationship
They
experienced
more
anger
at
the
end
of
their relationship
with
the
narcissist,
crc
glad that
the
relationship
was
over,
and
regretted
having
the
relationship
with
the
naicissist
Despit
the
fact
that
the
relationship
had
terminated
in
both cases,
ratings
were
significantly
more
extreme
When
rating
the
narcissist
than
when
rating
the
non-narcissist,
for
example,
participants
did
not
report
regrettinu
their involvement
with
the
non-narcissist
and
were
relatixely
neuirii
in
hue.
glad
they
were
that
the
relationship
had
ended.
In
fact.
it
was
not
uncommon
for
participants
to
mdicate
that
they
were the
ones
that
terminated
the
relationship
with
the
non-narcissist-
—becaus
they
wanted
to
muse
on
to
a
more
exciting relationship
This
brings
to
mind
another
question:
Do
narcissists
date
narcisists?
After
all,
if
the
qualt
ties
that
attracted
the
person
to
the
narcissistic
partner
(e.g..
attraetieness.
status
I
are
th_
same
qualities
that
narcissists
seek
out
in
romantic
partners.
then
it
is
likel
3
that
at
least
some
of
our
Participants
were
narcissistic
themselxcs
Indeed.
somc
of
our
research (Campbell
ci
at,.
2002)
Suggest
5
that
in
samplea
of
dating
couples
in
relatisely
stable
relationships, narcissistic indixiduais
2
1-aithfid
348
Intra-
and
Interpertonal
Procrtses
beC
u
them.’
I.
and
cal
ne(t
st
his
ntireI
appror
beco’’
S
cON
‘4arcis
jnjtiati
tionsh’
and
4
date
others
who are also
narcissistic,
However,
the
large
number
of
individuals
who
rap
charm
relationships
with
narcissistic
individuals,
the
ele
ated
number
of
sexual
and dating
partners
quahtt
reported
by
narcissists
(e.g., Foster
et
al..
2006;
McNulty.
Chapter
31,
this
volume).,
and
the
ecu-
destrU
trality
of
narcissists
in
social
networks
(Clifton,
Chapter
32.
this volume)
suggest
that
romantic tionsh
involvement with
narcissists,
at
least once
in
a
person’s
life,
is
likely
to
be
a
common
experience
I
En
sum,
the
tenets
of
the
Chocolate
Cake
Model
hold.
When
one
becomes
involved
with
a
nar-
for
the
cissist,
there
is
initially
a
high
level
of
attraction
and
a
short
period
of
positive
feelings
toward
the
narcissist.
In
the
long-term,
however,
there are negative
psychological
and
social
outcomes,
including regret
that
can
last
significantly
longer
than
the
actual
relationship
does,
y
contrast,
REF]
when
involved
with
someone
who
is
not
narcissistic,
there
is
less
initial
attraction,
modest
posi
trse
feelings after
initial
acquaintanceship,
but more positive feelings
toward
the
person
in
the
Baumei
long term.
Blair,
t
CAN
NARCISSISTS
CHANGE?
infortunately.
because narcissism
is
a
feature
of
one’s
personality,
it
is
extremely
hard
to
change.
Furthermore. (grandiose) narcissists
feel
good
about
themselves
(Bosson
et
a!..
2008),
and
this
reduces
motivation
to
change.
Why
should
narcissists
want
to
change
when they
believe
they
we
better
than
esers
one
else
is?
Thus,
it
is
rare
that
narcissists
will
be
motivated
to
change,
and
it
is
oflen
only
atter
a
series
of
fulures
(e.g.,
marriage,
at
uork)
that
a
narcissist
will
seek
ther
apv
Furthermore. escn
when
narcissists
strive
to
chanite.
this
proce’s
can take several
years
and
requires
an
especially
skilled
therapist
(See
Diamond
md
colleagues,
Chapter
8,
this
‘oIUfl1e
Behary
&
Dieckmann, Chapter
40,
this
volume,
and
ReedKnight
&
tiseher,
Chapter
42,
thiS
ecilume
Thus,
the
unfortunate
reality
i
that
tt
is
erv
challenging
for
a
narcissist
to change.
een
under
the
unlikely
circumstances
that
he
or she
actually
wants
to.
That
said,
there
is
new
research (Finkel,
Campbell.
BulThrdi,
Kumashiro,
&
Rusbult,
20091
that reveals
that
n
rrcisslsts
can
become
more
committed tomantic
partners under
the
right
et
..
f
circumstances,
fhese
circumstances
are
when
narcissists experience “communal activa
or
an
increa’e
tn
thoughts
or
rrlttI.es
regarding
caring.
empathy,
and
concern
for
others.
for
example.
n
one
tud.
fnkel
et
ii.
‘0’ri
primed
parncinants
cOth
eomrntlflal
images
or
neutral
images.
They
found
that
this
communal actixation
caused
more
narcissistic
1
ndivtdwils
to
‘ndorse
mire
words
that
reflected
commitment.
furthermore,
in
a
marital
sample.
narOiSSI
ii)
4-
>
ci
4—
Anger
at
Lnd
of
Relationship
Glad
Relationship
l
Over
Regret
Involsenient
Figure
30.3
Participants’
Ratings
of
Their
Negative
Feelings
at the
End
of
Their
Relationships
Narcissism and
Romantic
ReLationships
349
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snere
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likela
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greater
relalionship
ec’inmttment
sslien
their
partners
made
thcns
feel
loxed
and
cared
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cons
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This
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howeser’.
on
1
’.
demonstrate’s
th
5
possihiitta
of
narcissistic
change
in
relationships
and
a
possible
route
for
bringing
about
this
change
The
nest
step
is
to
des
elop
interventions
based
on
this
research
In sum,
it is
extremely
difficult
to
get
a
narcissistic
partner
to
oxerhaul his or
her
personality
cntirely—
especially when
motivation
on
the
part
of
the
narcissist
is
lacking That
said.
in
the
appropriate
therapeutic
context
or
under
the
right
set
of
circumstances.
narcissists
can
actually
become
more
commitment-oriented
oser
time.
CONCLUSION:
REVISITING
THE
PARADOX
Narcissism
plays
a
paradoxical
role
in
relationships.
Narcissism
is
both
a
po
erful
force for
initiating
relationships
that
are
positive
in
the
short
term
and
also
the
cause
of
significant
rela
tionship
troubles
in
the
longer
term,
The
apparent
paradox
is
the
result
of
narcissists’
traits
and
approach
to
relationships. Narcissists
have
a
set
of
qualities—social
confidence.
likability.
charm——that
are
optimal
for
relationship
initiation,
but
when
combined
with
another
set
of
qualities—low empathy,
seH-centeredness.
the
use
of
others
for
esteem
maintenance—are
destructive
to
relationship
functioning.
As
a
consequence.
narcissists
repeatedly
initiate
new
rela
tionships,
damage
the
relationship
and
hurt their
partners,
and then
move
on
to
another
relatioti
ship,
Unfortunately,
this
is
the optimal path
for
narcissists
given
their
make-up, but
nonoptimal
for
their
partners
or
the
social
structure,
3
report
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he
cen
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psvchof
‘am’
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... This trait can increase conflicts and reduce marital satisfaction. Narcissistic individuals often display behaviors such as egocentrism, materialism, deception, and control (Brunell & Campbell, 2011). Due to an unstable self-concept and a need for admiration to affirm their self-worth, narcissists idealize their partner when their expectations are met and overlook their flaws. ...
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This study aimed to examine the mediating role of effective communication skills in the relationship between narcissistic tendencies and marital satisfaction among married individuals. The research utilized a descriptive-correlational design, and the statistical population consisted of 200 married couples residing in Tehran, selected through random sampling. Data were collected using standard questionnaires, including the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Raskin & Terry, 1988), the Couple Communication Skills Scale (Rajabi et al., 1999), and the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (Olson et al., 1985). Data analysis was conducted using LISREL 8.8 software. Results indicated that communication skills significantly mediate the relationship between narcissistic tendencies and marital satisfaction. Moreover, effective communication skills enhance the quality of marital interactions and can mitigate the negative effects of narcissistic tendencies. Findings highlight the importance of communication skills training in improving marital satisfaction.
... This trait can increase conflicts and reduce marital satisfaction. Narcissistic individuals often display behaviors such as egocentrism, materialism, deception, and control (Brunell & Campbell, 2011). Due to an unstable self-concept and a need for admiration to affirm their self-worth, narcissists idealize their partner when their expectations are met and overlook their flaws. ...
Article
Full-text available
This study aimed to examine the mediating role of effective communication skills in the relationship between narcissistic tendencies and marital satisfaction among married individuals. The research utilized a descriptive-correlational design, and the statistical population consisted of 200 married couples residing in Tehran, selected through random sampling. Data were collected using standard questionnaires, including the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Raskin & Terry, 1988), the Couple Communication Skills Scale (Rajabi et al., 1999), and the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (Olson et al., 1985). Data analysis was conducted using LISREL 8.8 software. Results indicated that communication skills significantly mediate the relationship between narcissistic tendencies and marital satisfaction. Moreover, effective communication skills enhance the quality of marital interactions and can mitigate the negative effects of narcissistic tendencies. Findings highlight the importance of communication skills training in improving marital satisfaction.
... 1-4). Algunas investigadoras han revalorizado recientemente el amor erótico en sus estados positivos como disciplina espiritual (Ress, 2007), pero en líneas generales, a finales de la pasada década, los estudios de género y la militancia destronaron el mito del amor romántico; al tiempo que el amor narcisista crecía en interés para la academia (Brunell y Campbell, 2011) y el arte. En Annette tenemos la peor versión del mal querer, 9 pues una pequeña de por medio sufre violencia vicaria por parte de sus genitores desde la lactancia. ...
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La ópera rock Annette –del trío Sparks & Carax– marca un hito musical, visual y social en el contexto de su aparición, pues echa el cerrojo al pasado siendo parte de un futuro al que nos muestra instalado y con visos de quedarse… aunque no sea el que esperábamos. Como producto artístico-comercial de ficción, la obra se sitúa por antonomasia en el imaginario colectivo y en retroalimentación mutua con éste. Refleja y se refleja en la realidad, siempre imaginada. Este artículo realiza un acercamiento a sus contextos histórico-sociales e identifica algunos de los nuevos paradigmas e ideas-fuerza de las mentalidades colectivas enunciados en esta creación a través del análisis cualitativo de sus temáticas, estructura narrativa y lenguaje simbólico.
... Work by Campbell et al.'s (2000Campbell et al.'s ( , 2002 work concerning the likely consequences of narcissism for individuals' behavior within close relationships is consistent with such a conclusion, although these authors did not explicitly refer to Wiggins's (1991) revised interpersonal circumplex theory or Kelley and Thibaut (1978) revised interdependence theory. Consistent with that conclusion is also a large literature on narcissism in relationships (Seidman, 2016;Gewirtz-Meydan, 2017;Brewer et al., 2020; for reviews, see Brunell and Campbell, 2011;Sedikides, 2021). Moreover, although a synthesis of interpersonal circumplex theory and interdependence theory (Gaines, 2016(Gaines, /2018 likewise would support such a conclusion, the literature on interdependence processes has been more likely to address the related construct of self-esteem (denoting individuals' more realistic attitude toward themselves; Brummelman et al., 2016Brummelman et al., , 2018) as a positive influence on individuals' bestowal of rewards-and a negative influence on individuals' inflicting of costs-toward partners (Machia et al., 2020). ...
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We examined affection-giving, affection-denying, respect-giving, and respect-denying behaviors among men and women in heterosexual relationships. In a pilot study (N = 106 couples), although we had expected the latent variables of affectionate and respectful behaviors to emerge from exploratory factor analyses, we obtained the latent variables of socioemotional rewards and costs instead. In the main study (initial N = 182 couples), we replicated the factor patterns of socioemotional rewards and costs in confirmatory factor analyses. Moreover, we entered (final N = 177 couples) men’s and women’s self-reported narcissism alongside men’s and women’s socioemotional rewards and costs, as reported by partners, into a dyadic model that we tested via covariance structure analyses. Results revealed that, although men and women reciprocated rewards as well as costs (and correlations between individuals’ rewards and costs were negative), narcissism was not reflected in the patterns of reciprocity (men’s and women’s narcissism were positively related.) We discuss implications for studies of relationship processes as two-person group dynamics.
... Individuals high on Narcissism are characterized with traits such as a grandiose image of the self, sense of superiority, low levels of empathy, self-sufficiency, authority and a need for social admiration -among other features (Balaji & Balasundaram, 2014;Lyons, 2019;Miller et al., 2011). The results of possessing these kinds of traits might lead narcissistic individuals to have a sense of power over people and use their interpersonal relationships to achieve their goals, while still maintaining their grandiose self-view (Brunell & Campbell, 2011;Lyons, 2019). ...
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Introduction Personality is a central factor associated with relationship discord, conflicts, and separation, as well as with dyadic adjustment and relationship stability. The Alternative Model for Personality Disorders (AMPD) of the DSM-5 offers a hybrid model for understanding personality based on personality dysfunction (Criterion A) and pathological domains and facets (Criterion B). So far, few studies have integrated this model into the understanding of relationship quality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the contribution of Criterion B to relationship satisfaction in individuals involved in an intimate relationship. We also explored the joint contribution of Criteria A and B, as well as their interaction effects, to relationship satisfaction. Methods Participants were drawn from two clinical samples: patients with personality disorders (PD; N = 101) and clients consulting in private practice clinics (PPC; N = 350). They completed self-report questionnaires assessing relationship satisfaction and AMPD Criteria A (only for PPC sample) and B. Results Hierarchical regressions showed that, for the PD sample, the Detachment and Negative Affectivity domains, especially the pathological facets of Intimacy Avoidance and Separation Insecurity, explained 22.5% of relationship satisfaction’s variance. For PPC clients, Detachment, Negative Affectivity, and Antagonism domains, and especially the pathological facets of Intimacy Avoidance, Anxiousness, and Grandiosity, contribute significantly to relationship satisfaction, explaining 14.8% of its variance. Criterion A elements did not evince incremental value to the regression models in the PPC sample, and no Criteria A and B interaction effects were found. Clinical implications as well as limitations of the study are discussed.
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Two studies examined perceptions of romantic partners, using the Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Concept model to conceptualize narcissism. We examined three types of partner perceptions: partner-enhancement (perceiving one’s partner more positively than oneself), mean-level bias (perceiving one’s partner more positively than the partner’s self-perception), and tracking accuracy (accurately perceiving the relative position of one’s partner within a sample). In Study 1, 252 individuals rated themselves and their partners in two agentic domains (attractiveness/vitality, status/resources) and one communal domain (warmth/trustworthiness). Narcissistic admiration was associated with less partner-enhancement, especially for agentic qualities. Study 2 surveyed 75 romantic couples about their self-perceptions and partner perceptions. Analyses with the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model revealed that narcissistic admiration was associated with less partner-enhancement. Study 2 also used the Truth and Bias model to examine mean-level bias and tracking accuracy. Narcissistic rivalry was associated with less mean-level bias and greater tracking accuracy in the domain of attractiveness/vitality.
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This study examined how narcissism, described by the Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Concept (NARC), relates to reactions to romantic relationship dissolution. 246 participants completed a survey assessing the NARC components, and measures concerning a specific past relationship: Emotional reactions immediately following breakup, perceptions of the ex-partner, responsibility for initiating and attributions of blame for problems leading to breakup. Narcissistic rivalry was associated with greater externalized (anger) and internalized (sadness and anxiety) negative emotion, while narcissistic admiration was associated with greater anger and less sadness. Narcissistic admiration was associated with more positive and rivalry with more negative trait perceptions of the ex-partner. Narcissism was unrelated to attributions of blame for the breakup or relationship problems, but admiration was associated with a greater role in initiating breakup.
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Reactions to trait self-enhancers were investigated in 2 longitudinal studies of person.perception in discussion groups. Groups of 4-6 participants met 7 times for 20 rain. After Meetings 1 and 7, group members rated their perceptions of one another. In Study 1, trait self-enhancement was indexed by measures of narcissism and self-deceptive enhancement. At the first meeting, self-enhancers made positive impressions: They were seen as agreeable, well adjusted, and competent. After 7 weeks, however, they were rated negatively and gave self-evaluations discrepant with peer evaluations they received. In Study 2, an independent sample of observers (close acquaintances) enabled a pretest index of discrepancy self-enhancement: It predicted the same deteriorating pattern of interpersonal perceptions as the other three trait measures. Nonetheless, all self-enhancement measures correlated positively with self-esteem.
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Infidelity is a major cause of divorce and spousal battering. Little is known, however, about which individuals are susceptible to infidelity, or about the relationship contexts that promote infidelity. This study of 107 married couples examines three sets of possible predictors of infidelity: Personality factors such as narcissism and conscientiousness; relationship contexts, including recurrent sources of conflict and sexual satisfaction; and the relative “mate value” of the individuals composing a couple. We obtained self-report and spouse-report data on susceptibility to infidelity. We obtained self-report, spouse-report, and interviewer-report data on personality, relationship context, and relative mate value. Personality factors most strongly linked to susceptibility to infidelity were low Conscientiousness, high Narcissism, and high Psychoticism. Relationship contexts most strongly linked to susceptibility to infidelity include sexual dissatisfaction, and specific sources of conflict such as partner complaints about jealousy. Discussion addresses limitations of this study and directions for future research on predicting infidelity.
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This study examines the relationships among hostility, grandiosity, dominance, narcissism, and self-esteem in samples of 84, 57, and 300 Ss. The intercorrelations among various self-report and observer ratings of these constructs suggest that (1) hostility, grandiosity, dominance, and narcissism are substantially intercorrelated and form a coherent system of constructs and (2) the common variance in this system of constructs significantly predicts variations in Ss' self-esteem. The notion that some people use grandiosity, dominance, and a more generalized narcissistic personality style to manage their hostility and maintain a sense of positive regard was evaluated using hierarchical analyses. The results of these analyses were consistent with this model. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
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Previous research reveals a substantial degree of variability in the extent to which narcissism (as measured by the Narcissistic Personality Inventory or NPI; Emmons, 1987) and self-esteem (measured using a variety of self-report scales) are associated. Data from 329 college students provided support for the hypothesis that the variability in associations between narcissism and different measures of self-esteem may be explained in part by the degree to which a given self-esteem measure is related to dominance. These results have important implications for research on narcissism and self-esteem, as well as the broader issue of how self-esteem is conceptualized and measured in psychological research.
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We examined the internal and external validity of the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI). Study 1 explored the internal structure of the NPI responses of 1,018 subjects. Using principal-components analysis, we analyzed the tetrachoric correlations among the NPI item responses and found evidence for a general construct of narcissism as well as seven first-order components, identified as Authority, Exhibitionism, Superiority, Vanity, Exploitativeness, Entitlement, and Self-Sufficiency. Study 2 explored the NPI's construct validity with respect to a variety of indexes derived from observational and self-report data in a sample of 57 subjects. Study 3 investigated the NPI's construct validity with respect to 128 subject's self and ideal self-descriptions, and their congruency, on the Leary Interpersonal Check List. The results from Studies 2 and 3 tend to support the construct validity of the full-scale NPI and its component scales.
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This study examined the construct validity of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) by examining the relations between NPD and measures of psychologic distress and functional impairment both concurrently and prospectively across 2 samples. In particular, the goal was to address whether NPD typically "meets" criterion C of the DSM-IV definition of Personality Disorder, which requires that the symptoms lead to clinically significant distress or impairment in functioning. Sample 1 (n = 152) was composed of individuals receiving psychiatric treatment, whereas sample 2 (n = 151) was composed of both psychiatric patients (46%) and individuals from the community. Narcissistic personality disorder was linked to ratings of depression, anxiety, and several measures of impairment both concurrently and at 6-month follow-up. However, the relations between NPD and psychologic distress were (a) small, especially in concurrent measurements, and (b) largely mediated by impaired functioning. Narcissistic personality disorder was most strongly related to causing pain and suffering to others, and this relationship was significant even when other Cluster B personality disorders were controlled. These findings suggest that NPD is a maladaptive personality style which primarily causes dysfunction and distress in interpersonal domains. The behavior of narcissistic individuals ultimately leads to problems and distress for the narcissistic individuals and for those with whom they interact.
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