Lots of Narcissism Out There, Treatment Needed: Perspectives on Narcissism Among the General Public

Abstract

Narcissism is a hot topic in popular media, which often emphasizes harmful aspects and behaviours of individuals with narcissistic features. Such media likely contributes to negative perspectives that could further stigmatize narcissism and those who may suffer from narcissistic difficulties. However, limited research has investigated perspectives about narcissism among the general public. The present study surveyed 815 US-based adults to explore public perspectives regarding the prevalence of narcissism, attitudes related to stigma, perspectives on suffering and hope, therapeutic issues and experiences of harm associated with narcissism. Findings indicate that a majority view narcissism as a prevalent and undesirable personality feature and warrant considerable clinical intervention. Individuals who endorsed having experienced harm by someone with narcissistic features were more likely to express negative perspectives. The mixture of public perspectives regarding narcissism seems to indicate a potential role for public education in order to reduce stigma and promote help-seeking and treatment efforts.