Narcissism affects approximately 6.2% of the population. (Image via Pexels/Vera Arsic)

How Narcissism in Relationships Might Not Affect Your Mental Health, According to Groundbreaking Research

Modified Mar 26, 2023 14:15 GMT

A recent study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships challenges the popular notion that the narcissism of a partner is detrimental to mental health in romantic relationships.

The study, conducted in Germany, focused on mixed-gender couples and found that higher levels of narcissistic admiration were associated with better mental health, while higher levels of narcissistic rivalry were associated with worse mental health.

What is Narcissism?

It is a personality trait characterized by grandiosity, self-importance, and a sense of entitlement. Narcissistic individuals often have an inflated sense of self-worth, crave admiration and attention, and lack empathy for others. There are two types of narcissism - admiration and rivalry.

Narcissistic Admiration vs Rivalry

Narcissistic admiration is marked by charm, confidence, and the belief that one has a great personality.

Narcissistic rivalry, on the other hand, is characterized by aggression and the belief that others are worthless. Both types of narcissism can be harmful, but this study suggests that the impact on mental health may differ.

Findings of the Study

In a study of nearly 7,400 mixed-gender couples in Germany, it was discovered that individuals who displayed more narcissistic adoration tended to be in better mental health than those who displayed more narcissistic rivalry.

Nevertheless, the study did not uncover any proof that narcissistic adoration or rivalry had a major effect on the mental health of romantic partners.

The Role of Personality Traits

The study also found that agreeableness and extraversion, two of the Big Five personality traits, may play a role in the relationship between narcissistic traits and mental health. Further research is needed to better understand this relationship.

Narcissists often manipulate and exploit others to meet their own needs and desires. (Image via Pexels/Vera Arsic)

Limitations of the Study

As with any study, there are limitations. The data analyzed in the aforementioned study were collected at a single point in time, and the study only focused on couples living together. Longitudinal and replication studies with longer questionnaires are needed to confirm the findings.

Nuanced Understanding of Narcissistic Behaviour

The researchers hope that this study will foster a more nuanced understanding and its impact on mental health in the general public. The terms "narcissism" and "narcissist" are often used liberally on social media, and it is essential to understand the complexities of this personality trait.

In conclusion, this study challenges the popular notion that narcissistic partners are detrimental to mental health in romantic relationships. While further research is needed, the study suggests that the impact of narcissism on mental health may be more nuanced than previously thought.

Study: Do narcissistic admiration and rivalry matter for the mental health of romantic partners? Insights from actor-partner interdependence models, Leopold Maria Lautenbacher et al.

Edited by
Ankush Das