Story perspectives

Grandiose Narcissism Spurs Status Pursuit; Vulnerable Dampens Inclusion

6/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers Christian H. Jordan and Nikhila Mahadevan surveyed 528 undergraduates in three online waves two weeks apart.
Higher grandiose narcissism predicted stronger status desire and perceived status two weeks later, which in turn predicted increases in grandiose narcissism at the next wave.
Elevated vulnerable narcissism was linked to weaker status and inclusion desires, reduced affiliative behavior two weeks later, prompting Jordan to urge replication in older adults and cultures.

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Story summary

Researchers Christian H. Jordan and Nikhila Mahadevan surveyed 528 undergraduates in three online waves two weeks apart.
Higher grandiose narcissism predicted stronger status desire and perceived status two weeks later, which in turn predicted increases in grandiose narcissism at the next wave.
Elevated vulnerable narcissism was linked to weaker status and inclusion desires, reduced affiliative behavior two weeks later, prompting Jordan to urge replication in older adults and cultures.