Within-person dynamics of self-esteem and narcissism: An experience sampling study

Building on recent advancements in the hierarchical models of trait narcissism, this study investigated the underlying processes linking positive and negative state self-esteem with narcissistic states. Across two 5-day experience sampling studies ( N = 123 and N = 109), we applied a dynamic structural equation modeling (DSEM) framework to differentiate contemporaneous and temporal associations. Our findings suggest that positive state self-esteem positively predicts grandiose narcissistic states, whereas vulnerable narcissistic states were positively linked to negative state self-esteem. Furthermore, these relationships were influenced by participants' experiences of positive and negative daily events. While trait-level grandiosity and vulnerability contributed to state-level narcissistic manifestations, our results suggest that these traits represent only one component of a broader dynamic system involving state self-esteem and daily experiences. Framed within a complex dynamic systems perspective, our results highlight the importance of distinguishing between positive and negative self-esteem processes, as their situational activation may lead to distinct momentary self-experiences and co-occurring narcissistic coping responses. • Trait-centred narcissism research obscures state-level dynamics • Two 5-day ESM studies tracked state self-esteem and narcissistic states • Grandiose states linked to positive daily events and positive state self-esteem • Vulnerable states linked to negative daily events and negative state self-esteem • Trait narcissism contributed but was secondary to situational and state processes