The Mediating Role of Autobiographical Memory in the Relationship Between Narcissism and Rejection Sensitivity

Abstract

Both grandiose and vulnerable narcissistic individuals perceive a threat to the self when they face real or imaginary rejection. The sensitivity to rejection may affect them differently. Thus, this research examines the role of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism in the retrieval of self-threatening memories. The study aims to test the mediating role of autobiographical memory (AM) in the relationship between rejection sensitivity (RS) and two dimensions of narcissism. A total of 369 university students (ages between 18 and 32) participated in the study. The Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire was applied to the participants, triggering the memory of positive and negative autobiographical rejection. Then, the Autobiographical Memory Characteristics Questionnaire and the Pathological Narcissism Inventory were applied. The results showed that the autobiographical memory characteristics differ depending on the dimension of narcissism when they face rejection. This changes depending on having positive or negative content as well as recalling the sensory details especially emotional characteristics of the AM. The use of AM as a mediator in the relationship between narcissism and rejection sensitivity has provided a viewpoint beyond experimental and relational studies. The results have shed light on the role of narcissism and RS in the processing of autobiographical memories.