Unveiling the dynamics of narcissistic fluctuations and the affective cycles in narcissism

Fluctuations in narcissism are well-known but understudied phenomena. Existing studies evaluated how state agentic and neurotic narcissism interplay. However, they have overlooked antagonistic narcissism. This paper addresses this gap and presents data from an intensive longitudinal study (N = 199; k = 7,991 responses). Using dynamic structural equation modeling, we assessed fluctuations in narcissism and how they are related to fluctuations in momentary affect. We found that increases in antagonistic narcissism predicted subsequent increases in agentic and neurotic narcissism and vice versa, highlighting the central role of antagonism in the fluctuation process. Furthermore, we shed light on how fluctuations in momentary affective states can predict fluctuations in narcissistic states. Greater inertia (i.e., time needed for returning to personal equilibrium) in positive affect preceded inertia of agentic narcissism, while greater inertia in negative affect preceded inertia of neurotic narcissism. Fluctuations from agentic to antagonistic narcissism, as well as the inertia of antagonistic narcissism, were associated with fluctuations from positive to negative affect. Our findings show that these changes in narcissism occur in a specific sequence: from agentic to antagonistic, and finally to neurotic narcissism. The results provide novel insights into the complex interplay between narcissism and affectivity, aligning with theoretical predictions.