Understanding The Difference Between Communal and Pro-Social Narcissism

Sunday, August 18, 2024.

Narcissism is a multifaceted personality trait that can manifest in ways that are not always immediately recognizable as self-serving.

Two such variations are Communal Narcissism and Pro-Social Narcissism.

While both forms involve behaviors that appear outwardly altruistic or cooperative, their motivations and the ways they seek validation are fundamentally different.

This post will delve into these more obscure flavors of narcissism, drawing on social science research to explore their characteristics and impacts.

Communal Narcissism

Communal Narcissists derive their self-worth from being perceived as altruistic, caring, and morally superior.

These folks often engage in behaviors that are socially constructive—like charity work or social advocacy—but these actions are primarily motivated by a desire for public recognition and admiration.

They believe that their moral superiority sets them apart from others, and they expect their altruism to be acknowledged and praised.

According to Gebauer et al. (2012), Communal Narcissists are characterized by their belief in their own exceptional moral righteousness.

Their actions, while beneficial to others, are performative and aimed at bolstering their self-image as virtuous. This need for validation can lead to interpersonal difficulties when they do not receive the admiration they believe they deserve.

The gap between their self-perception and how others perceive their behavior can strain relationships, as their altruism may lack authenticity and consistency.

Pro-Social Narcissism

Pro-Social Narcissists, on the other hand, seek validation through their role as indispensable members of a group or community. Unlike Communal Narcissists, who focus on moral superiority, Pro-Social Narcissists are driven by a need to be seen as essential to the group's success and well-being. They often take on leadership or caretaker roles, positioning themselves as the linchpin of the group.

Research by Grijalva and Newman (2015) highlights that Pro-Social Narcissists use their cooperative behaviors as a way to maintain influence and control within a group. They are motivated by a desire for admiration and recognition of their central role, which can lead to manipulative behaviors.

Their helpfulness is often a means to an end-gaining and maintaining power within the group dynamic. This can create dependency, where the group relies heavily on the Pro-Social Narcissist, potentially leading to conflicts if their position is challenged.

Key Differences

While both communal and pro-social narcissists engage in socially beneficial behaviors, their motivations and the ways they seek validation differ significantly:

• Motivation:

  • Communal Narcissists: They are driven by a desire to be seen as morally superior and altruistic.

  • Pro-Social Narcissists: They are motivated by a need to be seen as indispensable and central to the group's success.

  Behavior:

  • Communal Narcissists: They engage in performative acts of kindness and charity, often for public recognition.

  • Pro-Social Narcissists: They exhibit cooperative behaviors and take on leadership roles to maintain control and influence within a group.

• Social Impact:

  • Communal Narcissists: They may alienate others when their need for admiration is unmet, leading to strained relationships.

  • Pro-Social Narcissists: They might seek to create dependency within a group and struggle with power dynamics, potentially leading to conflicts.

Final thoughts

Understanding the nuances of communal and pro-social narcissism is essential for recognizing how narcissism can manifest in ostensibly benevolent, socially oriented behaviors.

While these folks may contribute positively to their communities or groups, their underlying motivations are utterly self-serving, which can lead to challenges in relationships and group dynamics.

It’s appropriate to raise recognition of these traits so we can better navigate interactions with Communal and Pro-Social Narcissists, ensuring that their contributions are genuine and not merely a means to an end.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.

REFERENCES:

Gebauer, J. E., Sedikides, C., Verplanken, B., & Maio, G. R. (2012). Communal narcissism. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 103(5), 854–878. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0029629

Grijalva, E., & Newman, D. A. (2015). Narcissism and Counterproductive Work Behavior (CWB): Meta-Analysis and Consideration of Collectivist Culture, Big Five Personality, and Narcissism's Facet Structure. Applied Psychology: An International Review, 64(1), 93-126. https://doi.org/10.1111/apps.12025