Narcissism shows surprisingly consistent patterns across 53 countries, study finds. The findings suggest that younger adults, men, and individuals who perceive themselves as having high social status tend to display higher levels of narcissistic traits, regardless of their cultural background.

**Narcissism shows surprisingly consistent patterns across 53 countries, study finds**

New research conducted across more than 50 nations indicates that the demographic factors associated with narcissism are remarkably consistent around the globe. **The findings suggest that younger adults, men, and individuals who perceive themselves as having high social status tend to display higher levels of narcissistic traits, regardless of their cultural background**. The research was published in the journal Self and Identity.

The analysis revealed that demographic differences in narcissism were largely consistent across the 53 countries. Younger adults reported higher levels of both narcissistic admiration and rivalry compared to older adults. This finding aligns with developmental theories suggesting that narcissistic traits may help young adults establish autonomy and acquire resources.

As individuals age, they typically shift their focus toward prosocial goals and emotional stability. This maturation process appears to coincide with a reduction in narcissistic tendencies globally. The study provides evidence that this age-related decline is not specific to any single culture.

Gender differences also followed a consistent pattern worldwide. Men reported higher levels of narcissism than women across the majority of the nations surveyed. This gender gap was observed for both the admiration and rivalry dimensions of the trait.

Social role theories suggest that these differences may stem from societal expectations. Men are often socialized to be assertive and dominant, traits that overlap with narcissism. Women are frequently encouraged to be communal and nurturing, behaviors that conflict with self-absorption.

The researchers also found a robust link between perceived social status and narcissism. Individuals who placed themselves higher on the social ladder tended to report higher levels of narcissism. This association was observed consistently across the different cultural contexts.

People with high levels of narcissism often feel entitled to special privileges and view themselves as superior. This self-view likely drives them to seek out high-status positions. Conversely, achieving a high perceived status may reinforce narcissistic tendencies by validating their feelings of superiority.

While the demographic patterns were consistent, the average levels of narcissism did vary by country. The data indicated that people living in nations with a higher Gross Domestic Product reported higher levels of narcissism. This was particularly true for the dimension of narcissistic admiration.

This finding supports the notion that economic prosperity may create an environment that encourages self-focus. In wealthier societies, there may be more opportunities and cultural permission to engage in self-promotion. However, the relationship between culture and narcissism proved to be more complex than simply linking it to wealth.

For those interested, here’s the link to the peer reviewed journal article:

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15298868.2025.2593298

Question, the article suggests that young men display this trait (self report) more, but that as they age they move toward more prosocial behavior. Are we talking narcissistic traits or actual narcissism? I thought clinical narcissism was biological and assumed (perhaps wrongly) it couldn’t spontaneously change.

Young men is just a mine field. I think most grow out of it, though. Anyone who has already lived through that period with lots of friends and circles of people know that there’s some tinge of narcissism/even sociopathy that tends to happen (not in everyone, just some). Yet for most it vanishes, and they sort of age out of it.

Clearly some social dynamic is occurring too, not just some innate narcissism.

Its good to see psychological studies which incorporate diverse cultural backgrounds. Even well established psych studies such as big 5 personality traits do not replicate in some non western cultures.

I think people underestimate how many psych studies are based on undergrads at western universities. These are a very peculiar group of people with peculiar traits.

Atari, M., Henrich, J., & Schulz, J. (2025). The chronospatial revolution in psychology. Nature Human Behaviour. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-025-02229-y

But… narcissism manifests as more than just grandstanding ego. Some of the most toxic and dangerous forms tend to be the quieter ones that play the victim (the “if you leave me I’ll off myself” types). Seems like “narcissism” might not be the right word here.