The Role of Narcissism and Attachment in Adult Romantic Relationships: A Study of Greek-speaking Adult Participants

Abstract

The present study examined the relationship between narcissism and attachment dimensions in adult romantic relationships. One hundred and fifty one adults from the general population completed self-report measures of attachment dimensions, grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. The results indicated that both types of narcissism were significantly correlated to insecure attachment dimensions (anxiety and avoidance). Additionally, the results of the hierarchical multiple regression initially showed a significant prediction of grandiose narcissism in the insecure attachment dimensions, which was then counterweighted by the stronger contribution of vulnerable narcissism. The most significant variable in the overall examination of narcissism was vulnerable narcissism, significantly predicting both insecure attachment dimensions. Results are discussed in light of attachment theory and implications for clinical practice and future research are also considered.