Narcissism and the consuming self: An exploration of consumer identity projects and narcissistic tendencies

Aliette Lambert, John Desmond, Stephanie O'Donohoe

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate narcissism in relation to consumer identity projects. Narcissism is rarely the focus of consumer culture studies, though it resonates with theories of individualistic, consumption-driven identities, and is argued to be a pervasive social trend within a hegemonic consumer culture that places the individual center stage. We explore these themes in the context of emerging adult identity projects given arguments about increasing narcissism in younger generations.

Methodology/approach
Identifying eight participants using the Narcissistic Personality Inventory – four with high and four with low scores – we conduct in-depth interviews to explore their identity projects, narcissistic traits, and brand relationships.

Findings
Through idiographic analysis, we find that those with lower narcissistic tendencies seem to have a communal orientation to both people and brands, whilst those with greater narcissistic tendencies tend to be individualistic and agentic. We relate the narcissistic consumer to Fromm’s “marketing character,” proposing four themes that emerge from the analysis: liquidity; an other-directed sense of self; conformity; and the commodification of self.

Social implications
This paper discusses the societal implications of individualistic consumer identity projects, highlighting narcissism, a concept relatively neglected within consumer culture theory. Narcissism carries with it a host of societal implications, not least of which is a focus on the self and a lack of concern with the wellbeing of others.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationConsumer Culture Theory
Subtitle of host publicationResearch in Consumer Behavior
EditorsJohn W. Schouten, Diane M. Martin, Russell Belk
PublisherEmerald Group Publishing
Pages35-57
Volume16
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-78441-157-2
ISBN (Print)978-1-78441-158-9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014

Publication series

NameResearch in Consumer Behavior
ISSN (Electronic)0885-2111

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • narcissism
  • consumer culture
  • identity
  • emerging adults
  • consumer identity projects
  • brands

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