Abstract

Background: Research into pathological narcissism has advanced the understanding of narcissistic traits, interpersonal relationships, and functional impairment. Such narcissistic manifestations may have several different causes.

Objective/Aim: This review aims to evaluate the currently available literature concerning the plausible risk factors of pathological narcissism.

Methods: Review of available literature and studies from National Center for Biotechnological Information and Research Gate using the keywords: pathological narcissism, risk factors, developmental abnormalities, personality development.

Results: We highlighted that pathological narcissism is an outcome of genetic predisposition and certain gene-environment interactions. Shrunken hippocampus and amygdala reduced grey matter in cortex, innately elevated sense of grandiosity and entitlement put some individuals at a greater risk of exhibiting narcissistic traits than others. Persistent childhood trauma at the hands of narcissistic caregivers, emotional neglect, inability to mirror other individuals adversely affect the emergence of expression, understanding and regulation of emotions later in life.

Conclusion/Summary: Pathological narcissism is associated with decreased quality of life for both the narcissists and their loved ones. A better understanding of risk factors could aid further research and modify clinical approach to improve cognition, affectivity, and interpersonal functioning. Keywords: pathological narcissism, primary caregivers, grey matter, genetics, personality

Keywords: Pathological narcissism •Primary caregivers •Grey matter •Genetics •Personality