Trait-Emotional Intelligence and the Tendency to Emotionally Manipulate Others Among Grandiose and Vulnerable Narcissists

Abstract

This study builds on previous findings regarding emotional intelligence among narcissists by considering the maladaptive aspects of emotional manipulation and distinguishing between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Trait-emotional intelligence and emotional manipulation capabilities of grandiose narcissists, vulnerable narcissists, and non-narcissists were compared. A convenience sample of 584 undergraduates from the University of Florence (Italy) with a mean age of 22.61 (SD = 2.19) was recruited. A two-way ANOVA showed that vulnerable narcissists scored significantly lower than grandiose narcissists and non-narcissists in all the Bar-On EI dimensions, while grandiose narcissists scored higher than non-narcissists in Intrapersonal intelligence and the General Mood Bar-On scales. The two-way ANOVA also showed that both grandiose and vulnerable narcissists are prone to emotionally manipulate others in order to reach their aims.

Keywords:

• Grandiose narcissism
• emotional manipulation
• trait-emotional intelligence
• vulnerable narcissism

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Silvia Casale

Silvia Casale, PhD, is an associate professor of clinical psychology. Her main research activity is devoted to the study of the empirical profiles associated with grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Her research activity is also focused on the psychological risk factors for problematic Internet use.

Laura Rugai

Laura Rugai, is a PhD student. Her main research activity is devoted to the study of the psychological correlates of narcissism.

Barbara Giangrasso

Barbara Giangrasso, PhD, is an assistant professor of clinical psychology. Her main research activity focuses on psychological and subjective well-being.

Giulia Fioravanti

Giulia Fioravanti, PhD, is an assistant professor of clinical psychology. Her research activity is focused on the psychological risk factors for problematic Internet use as well as on eating disorders.