When Narcissus Was a Boy: Origins, Nature, and Consequences of Childhood Narcissism
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Abstract
Not all positive self-views are alike. Developmen- tal researchers increasingly recognize that it is important to distinguish between accurate, well-balanced positive self- views and inflated, narcissistic positive self-views. Narcissism refers to a sense of grandiosity and a strong need to be seen and admired by others. This article reviews current empiri- cal knowledge of narcissistic traits in youths and discusses future challenges and opportunities for this rapidly devel- oping field. Narcissism can be identified from late child- hood and has similar manifestations and consequences among youths as it has among adults. Future research will need to uncover the origins and early development of nar- cissism. The study of childhood narcissism promises to contribute to a more accurate and comprehensive under- standing of the development of the self and the conse- quences of the self. KEYWORDS—narcissism; inflated self-views; self-esteem; devel- opment; children