This discovery, published in the scientific journal Sex rolescomes to shake up a well anchored idea: that of an essentially male narcissism. Led with 328 adults, this study reveals that if the forms of expression vary according to gender, the consequences are just as destructive. In women, this narcissism takes a vulnerable and more discreet form, but it is nonetheless dangerous, especially in the context of couple relationships.
The two faces of narcissism, according to the genre
Narcissism is not limited to an obsession with oneself. It is available in two distinct profiles: grandiose narcissism, which is illustrated by excessive confidence and a dominant posture; And vulnerable, more introverted narcissism marked by low self -esteem and hypersensitivity to criticism.
The study by the team of researchers revealed that men tend to demonstrate grandiose narcissistic features. This type of personality is associated with a form of psychological violence: intimidation, control, emotional manipulation. But, contrary to popular belief, these men are not necessarily the most inclined to resort to physical violence.
In women, on the other hand, the results surprised the researchers. Narcissism, when it is vulnerable, results in a very real aggressiveness. Narcissistic women appear fragile, in demand for attention and affection. However, under this facade, some hide behaviors of great toxicity. And these violence, although invisitted, can be just as destructive as those exercised by violent men.
Female violence, a little -known reality
The study sample (176 women and 152 men) made it possible to assess the link between narcissistic traits and couple behavior. While narcissistic men showed a higher propensity to manipulate their partner on the psychological level, women with vulnerable narcissism were more involved in acts of physical, sexual and verbal violence.
Why do these violence often go unnoticed? Because social codes still value the image of the benevolent, maternal, passive woman. However, this social mask can be a weapon. The study evokes precise behaviors, often invisible or minimized:
- Threats from false accusations of abuse;
- A refusal of intimacy or affection as a means of punishment;
- The instrumentalization of maternity to draw up children against the partner;
- Physical assaults justified by an alleged self -defense.
These tactics sometimes allow certain narcissistic women to escape any responsibility, even to position themselves as a victim, making their violence even more difficult to identify.
A salutary questioning
What the study shows is that gender does not protect from narcissism, nor its drifts. And that underestimating the danger that certain narcissistic women can represent amounts to ignoring an essential part of domestic violence. The stereotype of the executioner man and the victim woman is no longer enough to explain the complexity of the toxic dynamics within couples.
The authors of the study emphasize the importance of recognizing this reality to better fight it: “Our research questions the stereotype that women are always the victims of abusive relations“, they write. By further analyzing the female narcissistic features, it becomes possible to detect these destructive behaviors earlier.
Far from the clichés, this study offers a more balanced and nuanced vision of domestic violence. A vision necessary to protect all partners, whatever their gender or their appearance.