A recent German study has shed light on a fascinating connection between narcissistic personality disorder and internet piracy. The findings, published in Telematics and Informatics, reveal that individuals with higher levels of narcissism are more likely to engage in trolling behavior online. However, the study also suggests that this trend may be decreasing, indicating that self-esteem could potentially serve as an antidote for this disorder.
Online trolling, defined as the deliberate incitement or upsetting of others through inflammatory, disruptive, or off-topic messages posted within online communities or social media platforms, has become increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age. This behavior is aimed at provoking emotional responses, causing chaos, or destabilizing conversations. The intensity of abuse can vary widely, ranging from mild incitements to cyberbullying and extremism.
With the rise in online activity and social media usage, researchers have begun to explore the psychological factors that may contribute to the prevalence of online trolling. Led by Elke Rohmann, a team of researchers investigated the associations between self-esteem, aggression, and trolling behavior among individuals with different types of narcissism. They hypothesized that both narcissism and high levels of aggression would be linked, but that individuals with high self-esteem would be less likely to engage in trolling.
The study distinguished between vulnerable narcissism, characterized by sensitivity, insecurity, and a need for validation, and grandiose narcissism, characterized by a sense of superiority and a desire for dominance. The researchers suggested that these traits make narcissists more prone to engaging in negative behaviors towards others. However, they also proposed that individuals with high self-esteem would be less susceptible to engaging in trolling behavior.
To investigate these hypotheses, the researchers conducted an online survey involving 216 German adults. Participants were assessed using various psychological measures, including the Narcissistic Personality Inventory, Narcissism Inventory Revised, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Aggression Questionnaire, and Global Assessment of Internet Trolling – Revised.
The results of the study revealed that individuals with higher levels of narcissism were more likely to engage in trolling behavior online. Both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism were associated with increased levels of aggression, and individuals with high levels of narcissism were more likely to exhibit trolling behavior. Interestingly, individuals with low self-esteem were found to be more susceptible to engaging in trolling, while those with high levels of narcissism and low self-esteem were significantly more likely to engage in trolling.
The study also found that self-esteem played a crucial role in moderating the relationship between narcissism, aggression, and trolling behavior. Individuals with high self-esteem were less likely to engage in trolling behavior, suggesting that self-esteem may act as a protective shield against negative tendencies.
While the study provides valuable insights into the personality structure of internet trolls and the psychological mechanisms that drive trolling behavior, it also has limitations that need to be addressed. The researchers acknowledge that the study’s design does not allow for definitive cause-and-effect conclusions, and the sample primarily consisted of young individuals, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings.
In conclusion, the study titled „Do narcissists act like trolls?“ offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between narcissism, self-esteem, aggression, and trolling behavior. By shedding light on these relationships, the study contributes to our understanding of the psychological factors that drive online trolling.