Researchers at the University of Surrey and the University of Southampton have investigated whether narcissists can elicit empathy for another person’s suffering.
It has been well documented that narcissists lack empathy, but why is that the case, and do they have the capacity to change that behavior? The research is published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.
Characterizing narcissism
When we think of narcissism most of us can all think of a colleague, friend, or former significant other that would fit the description; “A bit full of themselves, self-centered, and don’t seem too concerned about the effects they have on other people,” says lead researcher, Erica Hepper.
This lack of empathy has a detrimental effect
on interpersonal relationships,
social bonding and
prosocial behavior.
on interpersonal relationships,
social bonding and
prosocial behavior.
