Mine is Bigger than Yours! Narcissism Predicts Biases in Perceived Head Size

Abstract

The expression big headed is often used to describe narcissists, however is it possible that this term signals a bias in how narcissists perceive themselves? We tested whether narcissistic traits predicted biases in the estimated size and weight of specific body parts, including head circumference and brain weight. In two questionnaire-based studies, participants estimated the size or weight of parts of their body. In Study 1 (n = 316), we found that the Leadership/Authority facet of narcissism significantly predicted greater estimates of head circumference in men, but lower estimates of head circumference in women. In Study 2 (n = 275), we found that when a sexspecific average head circumference was not provided, Leadership/Authority predicted greater estimates of head circumference overall. We present evidence that narcissism predicts biases in estimated head size and brain weight, but that the precise nature of these biases is dependent on the provided frame of reference for body size. These results are discussed with reference to within-sex competitive strategies, perceived intelligence and stereotypes for male and female attra ctiveness.

Barriers to Bystander Intervention in Sexual Harassment: The Dark Triad and Rape Myth acceptance in Indonesia, Singapore, and United Kingdom

“…Narcissism relates to illusions about one’s abilities and characteristics (e.g. attractiveness, intelligence and dominance; Gabriel et al, 1994 ; Grijalva & Zhang, 2016 ; Lyons, Blinkhorn, et al, 2019 ). The negative correlation with skills deficits as a barrier could relate to the self-enhancing style of narcissistic individuals, which could result in exaggeration of skills in self-report studies.…”