How Does Narcissism Relate to Popularity and Likeability in an Adolescent Residential Setting?

Abstract

Narcissism involves an interpersonal paradox whereby individuals seek, and potentially obtain, popularity, often at the expense of being regarded favorably by others. This process may take on particular importance during adolescence. The present study considered adolescent peer appraisals of likeability and popularity at two time points, approximately 15 weeks apart, in relation to grandiose and vulnerable narcissism assessed at Time 1. Participants were 252 adolescents, ages 15 to 18 (M = 16.31 years; 172 males), attending a residential program for at-risk youth. Self-reported grandiose narcissism was correlated with peer-nominated popularity at Time 1 but not with popularity at Time 2 or with being well-liked at either time point. In contrast, peer reports of possible indicators of narcissism (i.e., confidence, bragging, dominance) were positively associated with those peers’ reports of popularity. Overall, narcissism appears to have some contribution to (un) likeability and popularity, and the possible distinction between these aspects of peer appraisals deserves further empirical attention insofar as they may have intervention implications.