Keynote Lecture: Narcissism - What it is, where it comes from, and why it matters
Abstract:
Narcissism is one of the most popular but also one of the most controversially discussed psychological constructs. In my talk I will build on latest research to better understand what narcissism is, where it comes from, and why it matters. In the first part of my talk, I will deal with the definition and description of narcissism. What is narcissism anyway? Following a self-regulatory social status perspective, I will systematically sort the myriad of narcissism concepts and measures by differentiating between (a) a motivational narcissistic core (grandiosity, entitlement, strive for social status), (b) narcissistic modes of behaving and experiencing in the moment (agentic, antagonistic, neurotic), and (c) narcissistic themes in which these modes are contextualized (e.g., intellectual competence, physical attractiveness, communal care). I will also distinguish this perspective from the antagonistic-core and the masked-insecurity perspectives. In the second part of my talk, I will integrate the outlined perspective with existing research on the environmental and genetic underpinnings and the development of narcissism. I will discuss processes underlying the stabilization and change in narcissism as well as more or less adaptive pathways of narcissistic individuals (successful versus failed narcissists). I will also touch upon the issues of gender, age, generational and cultural influences on narcissism. In the third and last part of my talk, I will summarize interpersonal and institutional consequences of narcissism. Narcissism relates to dating success, early peer popularity and leadership emergence early on in the acquaintance process, but also to romantic relationship, peer, and work conflict later on. It can provide tremendous energy and visionary guidance, but also fosters erratic actions and overly risky decisions. Against the backdrop of these findings, I will discuss evolutionary perspectives on narcissism and the role of narcissism in modern societies.