October 2022 PMID 34888884

Are they out to get me? Individual differences in nonclinical paranoia as a function of narcissism and defensive self-protection.

Erica G Hepper, Lyn Ellett, Danielle Kerley, Jessica L Kingston

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Mentions

Peak: 4 in Jan 2022

across 4 sources since Jan 2022

Extended reach

10,165

potential audience

Total likes

357

Video views

5,552

Mentions per month

Jan 2022 – Jul 2025

Where it's discussed

News16 articles
X / Twitter4 posts
YouTube2 videos
Blogs2 articles

AI synopsis

What people are saying

The discussions emphasize the connection between narcissism and paranoia, with phrases like 'Are nonclinical narcissists paranoid?' and 'Spoiler: Yes!' capturing attention and conveying agreement. The tone is inquisitive yet affirming, using accessible language and sharing resources, reflecting overall curiosity and recognition of the study's importance in understanding social and psychological dynamics.

AgreementModerate agreement

Most discussions acknowledge the findings that narcissism correlates with paranoia, with phrases like 'Yes!' and references to examining 'which dimensions of narc, when & why' indicating agreement with the study's conclusions.

InterestHigh interest

The high interest score reflects curiosity in the topic, highlighted by mentions of the paper being 'online' and available for download, suggesting readers are engaged and eager to explore the research.

EngagementModerate engagement

Posts show a moderate level of engagement through referencing specific aspects such as narcissistic traits and the relevance to nonclinical paranoia, though details are limited, indicating some depth but not extensive discussion.

ImpactModerate impact

The discussions hint at the article’s relevance by sharing access links and emphasizing the study’s significance within psychological research, but overall influence seems modest, not reaching broad societal implications.

Abstract in brief

The research explores how different aspects of narcissism, especially the socially maladaptive ones, contribute to feelings of paranoia by relying on defensive self-protection mechanisms rather than self-affirmation.
Across three studies with a mix of online volunteers and students, it was found that narcissism, particularly traits like entitlement and exploitiveness, increases paranoia, especially in stressful situations or social exclusion.
The findings suggest that people with high narcissistic tendencies may be more prone to paranoia because they tend to defend themselves aggressively and dismiss others, which heightens their sense of threat and suspicion.]

Read the full abstract

All mentions

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Dr Claire Hart

@Dr_Narcissism · X

RT @EricaHepper: Are nonclinical narcissists paranoid? (Spoiler: Yes!) Our paper examines which dimensions of narc, when & why. Now online…

Jan 11, 2022 · 5 shares · 1,320 followers View post →

Surrey Psychology@surreypsychology.bsky.social

@SurreyPsych · X

RT @EricaHepper: Are nonclinical narcissists paranoid? (Spoiler: Yes!) Our paper examines which dimensions of narc, when & why. Now online…

Jan 11, 2022 · 5 shares · 2,126 followers View post →

Dr Erica Hepper

@EricaHepper · X

Downloadable copy (pay wall / library access required) at https://t.co/5ntXD3sgqt

Jan 11, 2022 · 1 like · 569 followers View post →