Narcissism is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy for others, and a need for excessive attention and admiration. Research has found that narcissism tends to follow a trajectory across the lifespan, with certain periods associated with peaks and dips in narcissistic tendencies. Understanding when and why narcissism increases or decreases can provide insight into the development and expression of this personality trait.
Narcissism in childhood and adolescence
Narcissism first emerges in childhood, around ages 7-8, as part of normal development. Young children are typically self-centered and lack the cognitive ability to understand differing perspectives. This “normal” narcissism decreases around age 9 as cognitive abilities improve. However, some children maintain an inflated sense of self-importance through adolescence.
Several studies have found narcissism increases during adolescence, peaking around ages 15-18. Teenagers tends to overestimate their uniqueness and the number of people interested in them. This aligns with a period of intense self-consciousness and focus on identity formation during the teenage years. However, for most, overt narcissistic tendencies decrease again in the transition to adulthood.
Narcissism in adolescence
| Age | Narcissism Level |
|---|---|
| 13-14 | Elevated |
| 15-16 | Peaks |
| 17-18 | Declining |
The teenage peak in narcissism corresponds with a period of significant neural, physical, emotional, and social change. Teens are hyper-focused on themselves and how they are perceived by others. Most grow out of this stage as cognitive abilities mature and social skills develop.
Narcissism in early adulthood
In the transition to adulthood, overt narcissism tends to decline between ages 18-29. Adult responsibilities of work, relationships, and independence curtail narcissistic tendencies. However, some research suggests narcissism remains relatively stable from adolescence through the 20s.
One study found narcissism decreases steadily from age 15 to age 22, when it levels off. Other studies report a “modest curvilinear decline” in narcissism from adolescence to the early 20s. A meta-analysis found a small but significant decrease in narcissism from age 18 to 29.
The narcissism that remains in early adulthood has been tied to psychosocial adjustment issues. Young adults who retain heightened narcissistic tendencies are more likely to exhibit aggressiveness, substance abuse issues, and illegal behaviors.
Changes in narcissism from late teens to 20s
| Age | Change |
|---|---|
| 15-18 | Peak narcissism |
| 18-22 | Steady decline |
| 22-29 | Plateau |
The mellowing of narcissism in early adulthood reflects neurologic maturation, social development, and the adoption of adult responsibilities. The goals of status and admiration remain, but are pursued through more constructive means like career advancement and relationship building.
Narcissism in middle age
There is considerable variability in the course of narcissism during middle age, roughly defined as the 30s through 50s. Some research indicates narcissism steadily declines from young adulthood into middle age. Other studies show narcissism remains relatively stable throughout adulthood after the initial decline in the early 20s.
One comprehensive study tracked narcissism from age 13 to 47. Results showed a gradual curvilinear decline from adolescence until the 30s, followed by relative stability from the 30s through the 40s. Midlife narcissism was still higher than adolescence, despite the gradual decline.
There are several theories about narcissism in middle age:
- Narcissists become more adept at regulating their behaviors to fit social norms.
- Maturity and life experiences increase empathy and perspective-taking.
- Roots are planted in careers, relationships, and family roles.
In contrast to early adulthood, middle age narcissism is associated with career success, leadership, and achievement. The boldness and confidence of narcissism can translate into occupational and financial success during this stage of life.
Theories about middle age narcissism
| Theory | Description |
|---|---|
| Self-regulation | Narcissists learn to regulate behavior to fit in |
| Maturity | Life experiences increase empathy |
| Stability | Careers and relationships satisfy narcissistic needs |
While narcissism appears to mellow by middle age, core traits like grandiosity, entitlement, and lack of empathy persist. Narcissists simply manifest in less overt ways during this stage, utilizing relationships, work, and family to feed their sense of self-importance.
Narcissism in later life
Research on age-related patterns shows narcissism declines as people move through their 50s and into old age. Several processes lead to decreases in narcissism among older adults:
- Cognitive decline results in less goal-directed behavior.
- Social networks shrink, reducing opportunities for attention and admiration.
- Major life changes like retirement and illness force people to confront their limitations.
- Perspective shifts toward acceptance rather than self-promotion.
This decline is thought to begin in the 50s and accelerate with advancing age. One study found that while middle-aged adults scored higher in narcissism than college students, adults over 50 scored significantly lower.
However, some degree of narcissism endures into old age. Core traits like arrogance, entitlement, and lack of empathy persist. Elders with persistent narcissistic tendencies are prone to conflict with peers and care providers late in life.
Reasons for decreasing narcissism in later life
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Cognitive decline | Reduced goal-directed behavior |
| Smaller social network | Less attention and admiration |
| Life changes | Confront limitations |
| Perspective change | Less self-promotion, more acceptance |
The diminishing narcissism of old age reflects new life priorities, physical decline, and greater dependence on others. While narcissistic tendencies persist, elders express them in more muted ways, and the core emptiness of narcissism may lead to despair.
Conclusion
In summary, research shows narcissism follows a curvilinear trajectory, emerging in childhood, peaking in adolescence, declining in young adulthood, plateauing in middle age, and decreasing in old age. This parallels stages of physical and psychological development across the lifespan.
Narcissism reflects core traits like entitlement, grandiosity, and lack of empathy. These manifest differently throughout life as individuals mature and social contexts change. Understanding the arc of narcissism provides insight into its origins, risk factors, and potential for change.
Key points:
- Narcissism first emerges around ages 7-8.
- It peaks during adolescence around ages 15-18.
- It declines in early adulthood, then stabilizes.
- Persists muted in middle age, associated with achievement.
- Declines further in old age due to cognitive and social changes.
While some degree of self-focus is normal, pathological narcissism can damage relationships and undermine psychological health. Recognizing when narcissism peaks across the lifespan points to opportunities for intervention and establishing healthier patterns.