Gender and ethnic identity differences in narcissistic personality traits

Abstract

Narcissistic traits, though often viewed negatively, can serve as protective mechanisms, shielding individuals from harmful self-attributions and enhancing performance in competitive environments. Consequently, different environmental contexts are likely to predict varying levels of narcissism. In mating contexts, for example, these traits may be adaptive, with gender differences expected due to differing reproductive fitness pressures on men and women. The present research investigated gender and ethnic identity differences in narcissistic traits. Across four studies conducted with participants from the United States, men consistently reported higher levels of extraverted and antagonistic narcissism, whereas women exhibited higher levels of neurotic narcissism. Black participants reported higher levels of extraverted and antagonistic narcissism compared to White participants, aligning with prior research that suggests narcissistic traits may act as protective responses to systemic discrimination. An unexpected finding emerged regarding communal narcissism, where Black participants consistently scored higher than their White counterparts, suggesting that marginalized groups may express narcissism through prosocial or communal behaviors. The studies provided evidence supporting the measurement invariance of narcissistic traits across gender and ethnic identity groups. This suggests that the tools and methods used to measure these traits function equivalently across these groups. The findings offer valuable insights into the connections between demographic factors and narcissistic traits, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of how narcissism manifests in different populations.