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narcissism

·December 14, 2025·5 min read

Study Challenges Myths About Self-Centeredness

A large international study of more than 45,000 people shows that narcissism is a universal personality trait—not one concentrated in any single country. Although nations differed somewhat, the five highest-scoring countries were Germany, Iraq, China, Nepal, and South Korea, with the United States ranking 16th.

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·October 21, 2025·6 min read

When a Hug Turns Dark: How Manipulative Partners Use Touch

Touch can strengthen bonds and calm stress, but not all affection is sincere. A new study reveals that people with “dark triad” traits—narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism—often use physical touch to control or manipulate their romantic partners.

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·August 11, 2025·5 min read

Early Abuse Shapes Adult Sexual Behavior

A new study has found that sexual narcissism mediates the link between childhood trauma and compulsive sexual behavior. Researchers compared individuals with and without compulsive sexual behavior, measuring trauma history, sexual narcissism, and hypersexuality.

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·July 21, 2025·7 min read

FoMO and Dark Personalities Drive Online Political Engagement

A large cross-national study examined how psychopathy, narcissism, fear of missing out (FoMO), and cognitive ability influence online political participation. Across eight countries, people high in psychopathy and FoMO consistently engaged more in digital political activities, while narcissism predicted participation only in some contexts.

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·May 9, 2025·5 min read

Would You Rather Be Ignored or Gossiped About? Science Weighs In

New research explores the psychological tradeoff between being ignored and being the subject of gossip, revealing that neither option feels good—but for different reasons. In a series of five experiments with over 1,000 participants, researchers found that while most people reject negative gossip, many also feel uncomfortable being praised behind their backs.

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·April 15, 2025·4 min read

Dark Personality Traits in Politicians Fuel Political Polarization

New research reveals that politicians with narcissistic, psychopathic, or Machiavellian traits significantly increase affective polarization among voters. When citizens identify ideologically with such leaders, they become more hostile toward political opponents.

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·July 8, 2024·6 min read

Personality Politics: What Makes a Successful Politician?

A new study identifies humor, charm, and courage as crucial traits for successful politicians. Researchers found that aspiring politicians embark on challenging careers driven by a mix of ambition, idealism, and sometimes narcissism. Key qualities like charm, decision-making skills, and verbal prowess are essential for political success. The study also highlights the limited and often inadequate preparation for ministerial roles, suggesting reforms for better governance.

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·June 6, 2024·6 min read

Hidden Narcissism in Women Tied to Partner Violence and Bullying

Researchers have discovered that vulnerable narcissism in women is linked to increased intimate partner violence and bullying. Unlike the grandiose narcissism often seen in men, women's narcissism manifests subtly. The findings highlight the need for gender-specific interventions.

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·March 7, 2024·5 min read

Less Obesity and Depression in NPD Individuals

A comprehensive study across 38 states in the U.S. has revealed a surprising link between narcissism and positive health outcomes, including lower obesity and depression rates. States with higher levels of narcissism also showed a lower likelihood of heart failure and hypertension deaths, highlighting the complex role of narcissistic traits in public health.

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·September 14, 2023·4 min read

Machine Learning Uncovers Neural Pathways of Narcissistic Traits

Researchers have utilized advanced machine learning techniques to unveil the neural structure linked to narcissism, overcoming previous study limitations. Employing Kernel Ridge Regression and Support Vector Regression, they predicted narcissistic personality traits based on brain organization and other personality aspects.

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·April 11, 2023·6 min read

Those With Dark Tetrad Personality Traits More Likely to Catfish and Exploit Others

People who score high for "dark tetrad" personality traits, including narcissism, Machiavellianism, sadism, and psychopathy are more likely to embark on "catfishing" behaviors online as well as manipulate and exploit potential partners.

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·January 21, 2023·4 min read

Personality Traits Could Predict Those Prone to Prejudice

Those with dark triad or antagonistic personality traits including narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy are more likely to endorse negative beliefs about others, especially the LGBTQA+ community. People with these personality traits adopt prejudicial beliefs as they downplay the importance of equality and show little interest in protecting others, researchers conclude.