The purpose of the present research was to investigate the connections that narcissistic admiration (i.e., assertive self-enhancement) and narcissistic rivalry (i.e., antagonistic self-protection) had with respect in romantic relationships. The results of Study 1 (N= 432) revealed that narcissistic admiration was positively associated with perceived respect from partner and respect toward
... [Show full abstract] partner, whereas narcissistic rivalry was negatively associated with perceived respect from partner and respect toward partner. In addition, individuals with high levels of narcissistic admiration reported low levels of romantic relationship functioning when they perceived low levels of respect from their current partner. The results of Study 2 (N= 334 [167 romantic dyads]) revealed that the narcissistic admiration of women was positively associated with their perceptions of respect from their male partners as well as the actual levels of respect they received. In contrast, narcissistic rivalry was negatively associated with the actual levels of respect that men and women received from their partners as well as the levels of respect their partners perceived from them. Discussion focuses on the implications that respect may have for the romantic relationships of narcissistic individuals.
