Perceived need frustration predicting vulnerable narcissism: a lack of empathy and an inauthentic sense of self as mediators

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to empirically examine the development of vulnerable narcissism from a perspective based on the self-determination theory (SDT), focusing on the role of intraindividual and interindividual integrated functioning. With this theory in mind, it is hypothesized that need frustration, which is frustration of the needs of autonomy, relatedness and competence, predicts vulnerable narcissism and that this relationship is explained by a lack of empathy and an inauthentic sense of self. 136 non-clinical participants between 18 and 65 completed questionnaires to measure these variables. Results suggest vulnerable narcissism is predicted by need frustration, which is partially mediated by a lack of empathy and an inauthentic sense of self. Explorative analysis of the relationship of the separate needs with the other variables is discussed. In line with the results, mindfulness training is considered as a possible treatment.