The role of narcissism in health-risk and health-protective behaviors

J Health Psychol. 2016 Sep;21(9):2021-32. doi: 10.1177/1359105315569858. Epub 2015 Feb 18.

Abstract

This study examined the role of narcissism in health-risk and health-protective behaviors in a sample of 365 undergraduate students. Regression analyses were used to test the influence of narcissism on health behaviors. Narcissism was positively predictive of alcohol use, marijuana use, and risky driving behaviors, and it was associated with an increased likelihood of consistently having a healthy eating pattern. Narcissism was also positively predictive of physical activity. Results are discussed with reference to the potential short-term and long-term health implications and the need for future research on the factors involved in the relationship between narcissism and health behaviors.

Keywords: drinking behavior; eating behavior; exercise behavior; health behavior; health psychology.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Alcohol Drinking / psychology
  • Automobile Driving / psychology
  • Exercise / psychology
  • Female
  • Health Promotion*
  • Health Risk Behaviors*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marijuana Smoking / psychology
  • Narcissism*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk-Taking
  • Students / psychology
  • Young Adult