Narcissism's Beguiling Social Facade

Authors

Hunter G. Tholkes, St. Cloud State UniversityFollow

Faculty Mentor(s)

Amanda R. Hemmesch, Ph.D. Department of Psychology St. Cloud State University

Abstract

Narcissistic behavior, characterized by a persistent need for attention, admiration, and a feeling of superiority, presents various social problems for an individual. Back et al. (2013) have given a dynamic processing model of the narcissist's social behavior that stems from their underlying need to maintain a grandiose, unrealistic self-image. This underlying intention manifests through maladaptive interpersonal interaction tendencies: manipulation, devaluation, and other Machiavellian behaviors to stabilize or enhance their perceived social relevance. Using the Narcissistic Admiration and Rivalry Concept (Back et al., 2013) and Platt's (1973) social trap theories, we can explain the lure for acting in this damaging self-serving way.

Recommended Citation

Tholkes, Hunter G. (2023) "Narcissism's Beguiling Social Facade," SCSU Journal of Student Scholarship: Vol. 2: Iss. 2, Article 2.
Available at: https://repository.stcloudstate.edu/joss/vol2/iss2/2