Narcissism and Addiction Potential: The Role of Shame Experiences and the Pattern of Attachment

Abstract

The primary objective of the current study was to examine the correlation between narcissism and the potential for addiction, with shame and attachment pattern serving as mediating factors. This research employs an applied-practical approach, utilizing a descriptive-correlational methodology. The statistical population of the research included all Tehran University students from 2021 to 2022. From this population, 423 individuals were chosen as a sample through available sampling method. During the initial phase, the students completed the following questionnaires of Rizvi Shame Inventory (RSI), Pincus Narcissism Inventory (PNI), Zargar's readiness for addiction, Hazen & Shiver’s attachment style (AAS). Following a one-month interval, 90 individuals were chosen for the second stage of the study.These individuals were assessed using the Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Rizvi Shame Inventory (RSI) and Barzegar addiction readiness questionnaires. Each participant's vulnerable narcissism score exceeded the average of 85. The statistical software SPSS and AMOS were utilized to analyze the data. According to the findings of the study, the mediating role model comprised of attachment and shame was significantly associated with narcissism and addiction. In general, the results of the present study indicate that comprehending the vulnerable and grandiose narcissistic pathway with addiction requires an awareness of the connection between shame and attachment style. Moreover, this relationship should be taken into account when developing clinical interventions for young adults who are at risk.

Keywords

• addiction
• attachment
• narcissism
• shame