Feb 27, 2025
Modeling the Mind: A Computational Approach to Grandiose Narcissism
The model simulates self-esteem regulation in grandiose narcissism, where self-esteem is maintained through intra-individual regulation, admiration, or rivalry. Learning mechanisms and social feedback shape long-term behavior patterns.
Grandiose narcissism is marked by ambivalent social interactions—grandiose self-presentation and rivalrous devaluation of others—along with strong self-esteem fluctuations. Given its emotional and social consequences and rising prevalence, formalized models for prevention and intervention are needed.
In their recent study, Deborah Löschner, Martin Schoemann, Emmanuel Jauk, Lena Herchenhahn, Sarah Schwöbel, Philipp Kanske, and Stefan Scherbaum introduce a computational model of narcissistic self-esteem regulation, translating established theories into a formal framework. Across four studies, they demonstrate how parental praise and overvaluation foster grandiose-narcissistic behaviors and self-esteem instability.
More information on the topic can be found in the full manuscript.