Understanding pathological narcissism: Empirical explorations of clinical phenomena

Abstract

Pathological narcissism is a controversial and poorly understood construct. The present dissertation aims to advance the understanding of pathological narcissism with empirical research motivated by clinical theory. In three papers, we examine cognitive, affective, and behavioral components of pathological narcissism that can inform conceptualization and clinical intervention. In Paper 1, we characterize self-bolstering cognitive tendencies in the memory recall and future thinking of people scoring high in narcissistic grandiosity. These tendencies may inform how people develop and maintain an enhanced sense of self. In Paper 2, we examine the regulatory function of grandiose fantasizing. We demonstrate that grandiose fantasizing is effectively used as an affect regulation strategy among participants scoring high in narcissism, lending empirical support to a longstanding clinical theory. In Paper 3, we examine an underexplored and harmful behavior associated with pathological narcissism – nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). We identify strong associations between narcissistic grandiosity and engaging in NSSI for interpersonal reasons (e.g., bonding with peers, seeking revenge), but not for intrapersonal reasons (e.g., regulating affect). Together, these studies show consistent differences across cognitive, affective, and behavioral domains between individuals scoring high and those scoring low in pathological narcissism. We hope this work contributes to the growing body of literature that is clarifying and destigmatizing this perplexing personality pathology.