The Predictive Utility of Narcissism among Childrenand Adolescents: Evidence for a Distinction betweenAdaptive and Maladaptive Narcissism

Authors: Barry, Christopher; Frick, Paul; Adler, Kristy; Grafeman, Sarah

Source: Journal of Child and Family Studies, Volume 16, Number 4, August 2007 , pp. 508-521(14)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

We examined the predictive utility of narcissism among a community sample of children and adolescents (N=98) longitudinally. Analyses focused on the differential utility between maladaptive and adaptive narcissism for predicting later delinquency. Maladaptive narcissism significantly predicted self-reported delinquency at one-, two-, and three-year follow-ups. This pattern held even when considering other intrapersonal risk factors for conduct problems (i.e., callous-unemotional traits, impulsivity), parenting practices, and when controlling for earlier conduct problems. In addition, adaptive narcissism was predictive of delinquency in the absence of positive parenting practices, with maladaptive narcissism being particularly predictive of delinquency in the presence of negative parenting. The implications for understanding delinquency in terms of the social and motivational characteristics that are the hallmark of maladaptive narcissism are discussed.

Keywords: Narcissism; Delinquency; Child Behavior Problems

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10826-006-9102-5

Affiliations: 1: Email: Christopher.barry@usm.edu

Publication date: 2007-08-01