WEB DESK: A groundbreaking study spanning over 37,000 participants across various age groups has unveiled insights into the trajectory of narcissism throughout a person’s life. Published in the prestigious Psychological Bulletin, the research indicates that narcissistic traits tend to diminish as individuals grow older, though with nuanced variations.
The study, which synthesised data from 51 longitudinal studies, distinguishes between three types of narcissism: agentic, antagonistic, and neurotic. Agentic traits, such as assertiveness and confidence, show a slight decline with age, whereas antagonistic traits, including arrogance and entitlement, decline more significantly. Neurotic narcissism, characterised by emotional instability, also tends to decrease over time.
Professor Keith Campbell from the University of Georgia highlighted the relative persistence of agentic narcissism as a positive finding, suggesting it can contribute positively to personal development.
However, the study also revealed a stable pattern: individuals who exhibit higher narcissistic tendencies in youth often maintain these traits into adulthood. William Chopik, an assistant professor at Michigan State University, emphasised this continuity, suggesting that the most narcissistic individuals tend to retain their status over decades.
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The research proposes several theories to explain the decline of narcissism with age. One theory suggests that as people mature and assume roles in relationships and society, they prioritise traits like agreeableness and emotional stability over self-centeredness. Another theory attributes the decline to shifting priorities towards maintaining relationships and emotional well-being rather than seeking social status.
Emily Grijalva, an associate professor at the University at Buffalo, described the humbling effect of life experiences such as failures and setbacks, which can challenge narcissistic tendencies and promote personal growth.
Despite these findings, the study acknowledges limitations, including its predominantly Western sample. The researchers underscore the need for future studies to explore narcissism across diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds to validate the universality of these trends.
In conclusion, while narcissism may confer initial advantages such as popularity and leadership roles, its long-term implications can lead to interpersonal conflicts and reduced social acceptance. Understanding the developmental trajectory of narcissism is crucial for fostering healthy relationships and personal growth across the lifespan.
