Gender and the Narcissist: Exploring Differences and Societal Impacts

Gender-Specific Manifestations of Narcissism

Narcissism, a personality disorder characterized by an inflated self-image and lack of empathy, appears in both men and women, but is often perceived and expressed differently due to cultural and social factors.

Male Narcissists

• Emphasis on Power and Status: Male narcissists are more likely to focus on power, prestige, and status. They often seek control through professional success, authority, and financial dominance.
• Aggression and Entitlement: They may exhibit more overt aggression and a more pronounced sense of entitlement, aligning with traditional masculine roles that valorize assertiveness and control.

Female Narcissists

• Focus on Appearance and Sociability: Female narcissists tend to emphasize physical appearance, charm, and social skills. They are more likely to use their looks and sexuality as a means of securing admiration and attention.
• Relational Approaches: They often manipulate social and familial relationships to construct an image of desirability and to secure their narcissistic supply, which is the attention and admiration they crave.

Societal Responses and Consequences

The reaction of society to narcissistic behaviors can vary greatly between genders, influenced by stereotypical roles and expectations.

• Social Sanctions and Gender Roles: Female narcissists might face harsher social sanctions for behaviors that are perceived as aggressive or self-centered, which contradicts traditional expectations of femininity, such as nurturance and empathy.
• Professional and Personal Impact: Male narcissists, while often rewarded for assertive and dominant behaviors in professional settings, might suffer in personal relationships due to lack of empathy and relational aggression.

Research Insights

A study in the journal Sex Roles (May 1998) by Brian T. Tschanz, Carolyn C. Morf, and Charles W. Turner highlights that exploitative tendencies and entitlement are less integrated with other narcissistic traits in females than in males, possibly due to the negative social repercussions women face when displaying these traits.

Treatment and Therapy Dynamics

Gender differences also extend into the realm of psychological treatment and therapy:

• Therapy Admission: Women are statistically more likely to seek therapy and admit to psychological problems, partly due to less societal stigma compared to men.
• Treatment Challenges: Men might be less forthcoming in therapeutic settings due to societal expectations that equate emotional openness with weakness.

Conclusion

While the core psychological makeup of narcissists remains consistent across genders, the expression and societal interpretation of these traits vary significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and broader societal awareness. As we continue to challenge and redefine gender norms, the perception and management of narcissism may also evolve, leading to more nuanced and effective approaches to this complex personality disorder.

Further Reading

• Explore the dynamics of narcissism in professional settings on Psychology Today.
• For a deeper understanding of gender roles and expectations, visit APA's page on gender.

This exploration not only highlights the importance of recognizing gender-specific manifestations and challenges associated with narcissism but also underscores the need for tailored therapeutic approaches that consider these nuances.