Browsing by Author "Tapaninen, Pekka"

Aims Trait narcissism is a complex construct, which consists of several dimensions of personality. Recently this multidimensional conceptualization of narcissism has gained increasing attention among researchers who have emphasized the importance of examining narcissism not only on global but also on facet level. Respectively, studies on narcissism measures have focused more on the nomological network of the different and distinct dimensions because interpretations of the total measure scores have turned out to be perplexing. Organizations need to be aware of trait narcissism especially during leadership recruitment since grandiose narcissists might have a significant advantage under circumstances of minimal acquaintance. They may seem to be ideal leaders; however strong narcissist traits might lead to a destructive leadership style characterized by the blatant priority of the narcissist’s needs over the needs of the organization. This paradox has been described in the literature as the bright versus dark side dichotomy of narcissistic leaders. Organizations may decrease the chance of hiring a malignant narcissist by utilizing narcissism measures which tap into these both sides in organizational contexts. This study examines the construct validity, criterion validity and dimensionality of a narcissism facet which is part of a personality inventory called Stress Reaction Style (SRS) developed by Psycon HR-Consulting Company. The aim is to distinguish at least two dimensions which represent the bright and the dark side respectively of trait grandiose narcissism. Methods The SRS personality inventory narcissism facet answers of 8095 candidates (63% male; mean age 38.0 years) in personnel assessment context were analyzed using Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) Graded Response Model to establish the dimensionality of the facet. Criterion validity was examined by exploring the relationships between facet dimensions and assessment assistant evaluation scores with multinomial logistic regression. Results and conclusions Analyses yielded a three-dimensional solution for the facet. The first dimension reflected self-perceived leadership potential and the desire to lead. Second dimension represented self-admiration and grandiosity, and third self-esteem and the tendency to worry. The first dimension successfully reflected the bright side of narcissism defined in the study. The second represented only limited aspects of the dark side. Third dimension was not central to narcissism. This study affirmed the notion of the multidimensional nature of trait narcissism and endorsed the recommendation to focus on the facet level of narcissism measures to further the understanding of trait narcissism. In addition, the study discussed the contextuality of the utility of narcissistic leaders along with non-linear relationships of narcissism and leadership.