The relationship between narcissism and mental illness stigma

Abstract

Prior research has identified many factors that predict stigmatization toward those with mental illnesses. One such variable which has been suggested as a potential contributor is narcissism, specifically antagonistic narcissism, which is characterized by a heightened sensitivity to threats within one's social environment. The goal of the present research was to examine whether antagonistic narcissism may be linked to higher levels of mental illness stigma, and if such a link may be explained by moral exclusion variables. Across two studies (total N = 444), our results suggested that antagonistic narcissism was associated with higher levels of mental illness stigma (Study 1), and that the link between antagonistic narcissism and stigma may be at least partially explained by the perception of moral threat posed by those with mental illnesses (Study 2). Implications of these results for interpersonal relationships and clinical help-seeking are discussed.