Psychologist Reveals Unusual Phone Habit That Could Help Identify A Narcissist

A new study suggests that a common phone behavior may be an easy way to spot narcissistic traits in someone close to you. The behavior in question? Excessive use of social media.

Psychologists have long studied narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), a condition marked by an inflated self-image and a deep need for admiration. According to HelpGuide.org, individuals with NPD are “in love with an idealized, grandiose image of themselves.”

“They’re in love with this inflated self-image precisely because it allows them to avoid deep feelings of insecurity,” the site explains. “But propping up their delusions of grandeur takes a lot of work—and that’s where the dysfunctional attitudes and behaviors come in.”

Now, a recent study published in the Journal of Research in Personality has identified a digital behavior that may be linked to narcissism: compulsive social media use.

Researchers at the University of Gdańsk in Poland surveyed 665 social media users and found a significant connection between narcissistic traits and addiction to social platforms. The more frequently individuals used social media, the more likely they were to score high on narcissistic scales.

The study broke narcissism into several dimensions, including admiration, rivalry, enmity, isolation, heroism, and sanctity. All traits except sanctity showed a notable correlation with problematic social media use.

This adds to a growing body of research suggesting that narcissistic individuals may be more drawn to social media because it offers constant opportunities for validation, attention, and image control.

A recent study published in the Journal of Research in Personality has identified a digital behavior that may be linked to narcissism: compulsive social media use.

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According to the Cleveland Clinic, common features of narcissistic personality disorder include:

• An exaggerated sense of self-importance
• Fantasies about unlimited success, power, or attractiveness
• A belief in being superior to others
• A need for excessive admiration
• Feelings of entitlement
• A tendency to exploit others for personal gain
• A lack of empathy
• Envy toward others
• Arrogant behavior or attitudes

In parallel, experts are raising alarms about social media addiction, a condition that psychologists estimate affects up to 10 percent of Americans. The Addiction Center outlines several warning signs, including:

• Spending large amounts of time on social media
• Prioritizing social media over personal relationships
• Skipping social events to stay online
• Losing interest in hobbies and activities once enjoyed
• Declining performance at work or school
• An intense attachment to one’s phone
• Anxiety or distress when separated from a phone

Understanding Narcissistic Traits

Dr. Susan David, a renowned psychologist and author of 'Emotional Agility,' explains that excessive social media use often correlates with narcissistic traits. Her research highlights that individuals who seek constant validation through likes and comments may exhibit an inflated self-image, a hallmark of narcissism.

Moreover, this behavior can affect interpersonal relationships, as those with narcissistic tendencies may struggle with empathy. Dr. David suggests that fostering genuine connections through meaningful conversations can counteract these tendencies and promote healthier relationships.

In parallel, experts are raising alarms about social media addiction, a condition that psychologists estimate affects up to 10 percent of Americans.

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Dr. Ana Lembke, a specialist in addiction medicine and author of Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence, explains that social media can hijack the brain’s reward system. Even something as seemingly trivial as a “like” on a post triggers a burst of dopamine, the brain chemical responsible for pleasure.

“Watching too much social media can unbalance your dopamine levels,” Lembke explained in an interview with Vijesti, “and actually lead to a depletion where you need to spend more time on your phone to feel ‘normal.’”She added, “A break from this social media-induced dopamine cycle can allow the brain to reset reward pathways.”

While not every heavy social media user is a narcissist, psychologists say the pattern of compulsive use, paired with traits like self-importance and a constant need for affirmation, could be a red flag. With platforms designed to reward attention-seeking behavior, social media can act as a mirror for narcissistic tendencies, sometimes reflecting more than we realize.

Whether it’s a subtle craving for validation or a deeper psychological pattern, our relationship with our phones may reveal more about us than we think.

Experts in social psychology indicate that social media platforms amplify narcissistic behaviors by providing instant gratification through likes and shares. For instance, Dr. Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist known for her work on confidence, points out that frequent social media interactions can create feedback loops, reinforcing self-centered behaviors.

To mitigate the impact of these behaviors, Cuddy recommends engaging in mindfulness practices. These can help individuals shift focus from external validation to self-acceptance, ultimately fostering healthier self-images while reducing narcissistic tendencies.

Psychological Insights & Implications

The intersection of social media and narcissism highlights the importance of awareness in our interactions. As Dr. Robert Cialdini, an expert in influence and persuasion, notes, understanding how social reinforcement works can empower individuals to make more conscious choices in their online behaviors.

By promoting authentic connections and prioritizing self-reflection, individuals can counteract the negative effects of excessive social media use. This approach not only enhances personal relationships but also contributes to a healthier self-image, paving the way for a more balanced digital existence.