Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction . In the context of the transformation of the value-semantic sphere of modern society, narcissistic tendencies of the individual acquire special significance, but their relationship with the system of life meanings remains insufficiently studied. The relevance of the study of narcissism is due to its prevalence in modern society, as well as insufficient knowledge of the relationship of this phenomenon with the system of life meanings of the individual. Objective . To study the features of life-meaning orientations in individuals with narcissistic tendencies. Materials and Methods. The study involved 64 people aged 20 to 56 years (34 men, 30 women). The diagnostic complex included: “Narcissistic questionnaire” by R. Raskin and G. Terry, the method “Narcissistic personality traits” by O. A. Shamshikova and N. M. Klepikova, “Test of life-meaning orientations” by D. A. Leontiev, as well as the method “System of life meanings” by V. Y. Kotlyakov. Statistical data processing was performed using correlation analysis (Spearman’s criterion). Results . Significant positive correlations were found between the scale «Grandiose sense of self-importance» and the indicators “Life Process” (r = 0.6), «Goal» (r = 0.4), “Locus-life” and “General locus of control” (r = 0.5). A direct correlation was found between the “Fantasy preoccupation” scale and cognitive orientations (r = 0.6) and “Life Process” (r = 0.5), as well as a negative correlation with family meanings (r = –0.6). Demographic characteristics (gender, age, marital status) were not significantly associated with narcissistic traits. Discussion . The data obtained indicate that narcissistic traits form a distorted system of life meanings, where an exaggerated sense of self-importance is combined with illusory control and fantasy-filled life. Comparison with the results of studies on other clinical samples (cancer patients) confirms the specific nature of deformities in narcissism that cannot be reduced to age-related changes: high goals are compensated by fantasies, and family meanings are naturally devalued. Narcissistic personality traits are associated with the deformation of the value-semantic sphere, which manifests itself in the replacement of real achievements with fantasies, the desire for illusory control, and the avoidance of long-term attachments. The results obtained justify the need for psychological correction aimed at developing healthy narcissism and harmonizing the system of life meanings.
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204999957