Most clinical conceptualizations of narcissism emphasize an inner insecurity or fragility as a driving force of grandiose narcissistic behavior but this theory lacks empirical evidence. Further research is needed as to whether insecurity and fragility contribute to antagonistic and agentic expressions of narcissism, result from failed agentic and antagonistic strategies, or both in narcissistic individuals.

Boston University

- Current conceptualization of narcissism's underlying motives
- Narcissistic status pursuit model

Underlying Motives of Narcissism

Miller, J. D., Back, M. D., & Lynam, D. R. (2021). Corrigendum: Narcissism Today: What We Know and What We Need to Learn. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 30(6), 519–525. https://doi.org/10.1177/09637214221086630

Narcissism Today: What We Know and What We Need to Learn

Current Conceptualization of Narcissism

Grandiose narcissists select situations that afford status. This involves increased attention to status-related cues and on the basis of these perceived cues, the narcissist will later appraise whether they can elevate one's own status or reduce the status of others. Positive appraisals lead to agentic reactions while negative appraisals lead to antagonistic reactions.

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