Clustering daily expressions of grandiose and vulnerable narcissism

Introduction: Both variable- and person-centered approaches identify grandiose and vulnerable themes in pathological narcissism (PN). However, person-centered results rely on cross-sectional data, preventing identification of subtypes of individuals through transitory self-states. Methods: We perform a cluster analysis on the joint trajectory of daily ratings of grandiose narcissism (GN) and vulnerable narcissism (VN), collected during a 28-day experience sampling (N = 196 participants). Results: The best partition—identified by multiple criteria—includes three clusters: a “low PN” cluster displays below-average levels of both daily GN and VN; a “high VN” cluster displays average daily GN and above-average levels of daily VN; a “high GN” cluster shows above-average levels of daily GN and below-average levels of daily VN. Significant inter-cluster differences emerge on both daily and trait measures of narcissism, and on trait measures of self-esteem and shame, but less sharply on impairment in personality structure. There is no inter-cluster difference on the variability and instability of daily narcissism. Discussion: We conclude that the constructs of daily GN and VN define corresponding groups of individuals with either high GN or VN, the latter group being more distressed. Yet, this group is also less “pure” in its narcissistic characterization, showing at least some levels of trait and state GN.