How Do Grandiose and Vulnerable Narcissism Relate to Psychological Symptoms?: The Role of Emotions

Abstract

Studies indicated a distinction between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism regarding their relationships with psychological symptoms. Internal processes occurring in grandiose and vulnerable narcissism must be considered to better understand the nature of this distinction. The current study aimed to investigate the role of self-conscious emotions (i.e., trait shame, guilt, pride) and anger (i.e., trait anger, internalized and externalized anger) in the association between the two types of narcissism (i.e., grandiose and vulnerable narcissism) and psychological symptoms. Five hundred and fifty-nine adult participants completed the self-report measures to assess for grandiose and vulnerable narcissism, emotions, and psychological symptoms. The results of parallel bootstrapping method indicated that individuals with grandiose traits had fewer psychological symptoms through the role of trait pride. Trait anger and externalization of anger toward others, on the other hand, contributed to the relationship between grandiose traits and heightened psychological symptoms. Vulnerable narcissism was found to be associated with increased psychological symptoms through the role of trait shame, pride, anger, and both internalized and externalized anger. These results indicated that although both forms of narcissism have an anger-prone structure, their distinctive relations with shame, pride, and suppressed anger may indicate different underlying dynamics. Possible implications for practice and suggestions for future studies have also been highlighted.