Narcissistic characteristics and eating-disordered behaviors.
OBJECTIVE
There is evidence that core narcissism and the narcissistic defenses have a role in the emotions and cognitions associated with the eating disorders. However, there is little understanding of its relationship with behaviors seen in this population. This study aimed to examine the relationship between narcissism and eating-disordered behaviors (e.g., bingeing and purging).


METHODS
The participants, 110 women presenting with an eating disorder, completed measures of narcissism and eating disorder psychopathology.


RESULTS
Associations were found between patients who engaged in excessive exercise and levels of narcissism. There were also dimensional associations between eating-disordered behaviors and specific aspects of narcissism.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinical implications and limitations of the study are discussed, and future directions for research suggested.
Campbell
Mari
M
Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, England. Mari.Campbell@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Waller
Glenn
G
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009289:Narcissism; D010551:Personality; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires