In a society constantly chasing the next thrill, we often overlook the hidden power of boredom. While excitement can lead us to complacency and a desire to remain in our comfort zones, monotony can serve as the fertile ground for success. However, in this age of social media and self-promotion, we find ourselves grappling with an epidemic of narcissism that threatens our emotional well-being and social fabric. This article delves into the nature of Narcissist Personality Disorder (NPD), its correlation with social media, and how we can navigate a world with self-centered behavior.
Narcissism, characterized by grandiosity (W.keith Campbell, 2019), a lack of empathy, and an excessive focus on oneself, is not confined to any one gender. Studies suggest that NPD affects between 0.5 percent to 6 percent of the population, with a notable prevalence among men.
The rise of narcissism is particularly alarming among the youth, who often find themselves in emotionally abusive relationships with narcissistic peers, parents, or colleagues. This self-importance and need for validation can lead to toxic environments that stifle personal growth.
NPD seems to be proliferating, especially among the generation zee. Social landscapes particularly Instagram, TikTok, and X are designed to incorporate a sense of validation, self-promotion, and curated images that are anything but the norm of modus operandi. These digital platforms are a double-edged sword, boosting confidence for fame and sensation while shattering moral values and aplomb. Various factors are involved that display the blueprints of narcissistic behavior.
First, our youth has been caught in the trend of a validation loop that has intoxicated their thoughts and daily life performances. The game of views and going viral has made them addicted to dopamine surges and unethical activities. Thus, the invisible shackles of external validation and digital reliance are cultivating a culture of narcissism and self-centered behavior.
Second, the most cringe-influencer syndrome among our youth. In today’s world without knowledge, professional degrees, skills, and hard work, one can influence you in every aspect of life, earning fame and money which ultimately fails us as a nation. The influencer culture goes parallel with the narcissistic disorder because it fosters and glorifies the social status image among the user and qualifies the traits of admiration, grandiosity, and entitlement.
Third, the social comparison trap of self-curated success profiles has played a vital role in developing envious behavior among people. A daily content-less vlog of thirty minutes, the pomp and show of superficial achievements and social recognition all over your feeds and stories, creates a social gap and insecurities among people. Eventually, it fuels the narcissistic traits to achieve limelight and superiority.
Other than reel life, NPD has also been observed in real-life scenarios. It is quite visible between co-workers to grab the best positions, among siblings to be the apple of the eye of the parents; among students in universities and colleges to be a shining star of the institute.
Thus, NPD is neither solely related to the digital world nor actual life, it is considered to have evolved due to pre-existing experiences and vulnerabilities including a lack of empathy, emotions, fragile self-esteem, conceit, and exploitation.
Case Study 1: Donald Trump– A Narcissist Leader?
In 2019, I was in the US, what I observed in the democratic, yet autocratic government was the prevalence of single-person ideology that is regarded as the larger-than-life figure, securing unparalleled support from the followers. Either “economic policies” or “America-first” trends, tariffs on China or trade deals like “NAFTA”, conservative Judiciary appointments, or Twitter- trends, in short, you name it and it is there. Yes, of course, I am talking about Trump’s legacy.
Donald Trump, now the 47th President of the US, left an imperishable mark on the U.S. political history during his last tenure which brought both “applause” from the supporters and “scorn” from the critics. Unapologetically, his current Presidency is no less of Conflicts and errors arise, only if he is concerned.
Undoubtedly, Trump’s political and economic reforms solidified his status as an influential entity in the business class, conservatives, and online audience. These factors are enough to cater to his desires and whims, the overwhelming demand for self-admiration, and recklessness, traits of a narcissistic mindset.
He proved himself to be a narcissist when he struggled with “leadership” issues due to malignant narcissistic traits, which have been critiqued by over 200 health professionals and ultimately charismatic rhetoric and public charm failed to strengthen his prestige and persona.
The story never ends here. My Colleagues and I have to witness the COVID pandemic hit. The erratic decision-making during the pandemic and political preferences, including re-elections, over the health crisis exposed the “biased” leadership of the president.
Additionally, his lack of emotional intelligence raised a question mark on his administrative skills and public empathy. The bond between social media and Trump is evident, especially the “Twitter” or ” X-platform” keeping him out of traditional media platforms which reflects his self-adulation and personal preferences over cultural norms.
There is one class of people who viewed his narcissism as self-confidence and unfiltered communication as signs of strength and leadership. Whereas” his narcissism is damaging to democracy, ethics, and national discourse”, according to the critique.
With this case study, I have documented that social media-induced narcissism is not only trending among youth, but people of every age are suffering, and Trump has proved it through his Twitter campaigns, social rallies, and civil disturbances including impeachment and Capitol incidents. Donald Trump’s presidency serves as a prime example of how narcissism can influence leadership.
While he garnered significant support through his bold policies and social media presence, his grandiosity and lack of emotional intelligence often overshadowed his legacy as a leader. Critics point to his erratic decision-making during crises, like the COVID pandemic, as evidence of how narcissistic traits can undermine public trust and governance.
Case Study 2: How Narcissists impact workplaces environment
Before starting this story, I want to highlight workplace narcissism as a byproduct of gender inequality and a male-dominated society. First, it is hardly diagnosed and treated as people consider the behavioral pattern normal and on point. In reality, it is one of the worst personality disorders that can ruin the mental peace and personal growth of co-workers.
In my first job out of university, I was assigned to work with a team of academics and subject specialists. I met Saad, the team lead, renowned for his “immaculate vision” and “leadership skills”. He assumed himself to be version 2.0. Why not? He was the right hand of the CEO and he knows well how to turn things in his favour. But for me, his behavior was quite self-centered and critical.
His lack of disrespect for the opposite gender and patriarchal mindset hit the last nail in the coffin and proved himself emotionally insensitive and self-obsessed. He used to pass unnecessary remarks on others’ performances and steer the discussions to maximize his personal opinions, desired self-admiration, and validation. Any objections or accountability switched him into rivalry mode which is a clear symptom of vulnerable narcissism. He made the office environment miserable for others which brought a huge emotional toll on the well-being of others.
Saad’s and Trump’s stories reflect that not all social media users are narcissists and not all nerds are mentally healthy and stable. Narcissism is the by-product of your previous life challenges, experiences specifically in childhood. Childhood traumas, excessive parental praise, emotional or sexual abuse, or societal backlash, slowly and gradually become a personality trait without considering its harmful impacts on others.
Coping with Narcissist is draining but not impossible!
There is a body of research that suggests navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals can be challenging, especially when they are family members, bosses, or close friends. Here are some strategies to cope:
First things first, If you want to survive in any of these scenarios, you have to be emotionally intelligent and empathetic. So, you do not get it from the opposite party, you can offer it from your plate. If your parents confront you, do not get exhausted, but handle the situation with care and empathy and then attempt to assert yourself.
Be mindful of your goals and targets, set clear boundaries (Kluger, 2025), and do not get rattled by the bad behavior of your employer. It is just a job and you can master it through your composed personality and behavior.
Last but not least, if the next person is your loved one, give each other space and time, do not rush into relationships, if you get indicators of concern. You must set clear boundaries and never tolerate vicious behavior, because the person might play victim and lose his temper which brings insecurities and emotional trauma.
When to say goodbye!
It is not a human tendency to suffer negative feedback and narcissistic traits every time. It can be challenging sometimes if you are not heard enough, constantly ignored or betrayed, you must leave the place to secure your mental and physical health, and integrity. If your work environment is exhausting and deteriorating your energies, look for new opportunities, set clear boundaries, and limit your interactions with the narcissist individual.
In a relationship, if you are the one who suffers the negativity, leave the person for the sake of your safety and well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted friends, counselors, mentors, and parents to maintain your emotional health and discuss your daily life experiences so that you can seek guidance that you have not been getting.
The Path Forward
While narcissism is a complex and often damaging personality trait, it is not insurmountable. By understanding its roots and recognizing its manifestations in digital and real-world contexts, we can equip ourselves with the tools to navigate these challenges.
Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your emotional health and well-being. In a world where excitement often reigns supreme, embracing moments of boredom may just be the key to unlocking your potential for success and fulfillment. As we strive to cultivate empathy and authenticity, we can pave the way for a more balanced and compassionate society.
References:
- Glenza, J. (2024, October 24th October). 1. Retrieved from The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/oct/24/trump-nyt-ad-george-conway-pac
- Kluger, J. (2025, February 10th February). 1. Retrieved from TIME: https://time.com/7213814/how-to-deal-with-narcissists/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- Rosa Silverman. (2025, Feburary 17th Feburary). 1. Retrieved from The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/02/17/my-father-was-a-narcissist-gen-z-tiktok/
- Silverman, R. (2025, February seventeenth February). 1. Retrieved from The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/02/17/my-father-was-a-narcissist-gen-z-tiktok/
- W.keith Campbell. (2019, December second December). 1. Retrieved from The Singju Post: https://singjupost.com/the-psychology-of-narcissism-w-keith-campbell-transcript/?singlepage=1
Similar Articles: Is Social Media Hitting Mental Health Hard?
