Narcissism, with its captivating mix of charisma and self-absorption, continues to intrigue psychologists worldwide– understanding the roots of such tendencies remains a significant endeavor in psychology. While factors such as genetics and societal influences play into the making of a narcissist, there is one prominent factor– that is, ‘upbringing’; or, in other words, parenting styles. In this article, we dive into the interplay between parenting styles and the development of narcissism.
Parenting styles
Parenting styles, as renowned psychologist Diana Baumrind categorizes them, wield considerable influence over a child's psychological landscape. From the authoritative guidance of mentors to the neglectful voids left by absentee figures, each parenting approach leaves its mark on the individual's evolving personality. Let us look into the four types of parenting styles: authoritarian, Authoritative, Permissive, and Uninvolved.
Authoritarian Parenting: The Seeds of Superiority
Statistics reveal a startling correlation between authoritarian parenting and the emergence of narcissistic traits. A study conducted by Cramer P. found that children raised in authoritarian households were twice as likely to exhibit narcissistic behaviors in adulthood as compared to their peers raised in more nurturing environments. The rigid structure and lack of emotional warmth inherent in authoritarian parenting breed a hunger for power and control, leading individuals to assert dominance as a shield against feelings of vulnerability as they grow older.
Permissive Parenting: The Mirage of Indulgence
According to another survey, individuals brought up in permissive environments were three times as likely to display entitlement and an aversion to criticism compared to those raised with firmer boundaries. The absence of structure and consequences in permissive households are said to foster an illusion of invincibility, fueling a sense of entitlement that permeates into adulthood.
Authoritative Parenting: Nurturing Resilience
Amidst the shadows, there shines a beacon of hope in the form of authoritative parenting– studies consistently demonstrate that children raised in authoritative households exhibit lower levels of narcissism and higher levels of empathy and resilience. Typically, individuals brought up with a balanced blend of warmth and structure are half as likely to display narcissistic traits compared to their counterparts.
Uninvolved Parenting: Echoes of Emptiness
Perhaps most poignantly, statistics underscore the impact of uninvolved parenting on the development of narcissism. A meta-analysis by Marije Stoltenborgh et al. revealed that individuals who experienced childhood neglect were four times as likely to seek external validation and admiration in adulthood. The void left by emotional neglect drives individuals to seek affirmation from external sources, perpetuating a cycle of self-centered behavior and superficial relationships.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
Having narcissistic tendencies, such as attention-seeking and bragging, are normal when they occur naturally— and some people grow up to exhibit narcissistic traits more intensely or more often than others, depending on their upbringing. However, people who are at the highest end of the spectrum are those who are classified as having Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). Here are common symptoms of NPD, and it can be remembered using the acronym “SPECIAL ME”:
Despite the reluctance of many individuals with NPD to acknowledge their condition or seek help, there is hope for those seeking to address it. From mood stabilizers and psychotherapy to the development of emotional intelligence, avenues for improvement are available. With the guidance of skilled therapists and a commitment to personal growth, individuals with NPD can cultivate self-awareness, take responsibility for their actions, and foster healthier relationships.
Reference list
Jessup University (2019). The psychology behind different types of parenting styles. [online] William Jessup University. Available at: https://jessup.edu/blog/academic-success/the-psychology-behind-different-types-of-parenting-styles/#:~:text=In%20the%201960s%2C%20psychologist%20Diana [Accessed 28 Apr. 2024].
Shrikant, A. (2023). There are 2 styles of parenting that lead kids to become narcissistic adults, says psychologist who’s treated dozens of them. [online] CNBC. Available at: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/26/psychologist-these-2-parenting-styles-raise-narcissistic-adults.html [Accessed 28 Apr. 2024].
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