The Development of Narcissism

Narcissism is a complex multifaceted construct spanning from grandiose to vulnerable features. Grandiose narcissistic attributes encompass overt superiority, exhibition of self-aggrandising tendencies, preoccupation with omnipotence, and a sense of authority. In contrast, core vulnerable features consist of hypervigilance, neuroticism, shame, hypersensitivity, and low self-esteem. Narcissistic development occurs in the context of a myriad of factors, including environmental, biological, evolutionary, and sociocultural. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of these factors in the origins of narcissism. Accordingly, the clinical theories which underpin the environmental roots of narcissism will be outlined, before proceeding to review the related literature for each developmental factor. This chapter concludes with recommendations for future research directions based on methodological limitations identified, particularly concerning the need for rigorous assessments that comprehensively capture the origins of narcissism in females.