Covert Narcissists and The Pandemic: What Happened?

The pandemic created a challenging and stimulating environment for narcissists. On the one hand, they may have needed help with the loss of control and routine and the need to follow rules and guidelines. On the other hand, the pandemic provided opportunities for attention-seeking behaviour and grandiose thinking, such as through social media and online interactions.

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One study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences found that individuals high in grandiose narcissism were less likely to follow COVID-19 guidelines, such as wearing masks and practising social distancing. The researchers suggest that this may be due to a sense of entitlement and a belief that rules do not apply to them.

The pandemic may have had a different impact on covert narcissists compared to overt narcissists. Covert narcissists tend to be more introverted and less assertive than overt narcissists and may rely more on manipulation and victimhood to maintain their sense of superiority.

According to a study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences, covert narcissism was positively associated with anxiety and depression during the pandemic. This suggests that covert narcissists may have struggled more with the uncertainty and isolation of the pandemic and may have experienced negative mental…