Collective narcissism has turned into a virus. After all, it infects and spreads easily. This need for the group itself to be praised, at the expense of others, is a dynamic that occurs in all times. It has varied in intensity, and we have seen its worst in certain historical moments, such as Nazi Germany.
It expresses a certain nostalgia for the existence of “a superior race.” Although, of course, it does not necessarily have to be about race. Any group that shares some element of identity serves. And we could be talking about countries, but also about football teams or professions.
It is very obvious in football. Collective narcissism makes some fans literally unable to accept the victories of the opponent. It also leads them to make grand displays of power, with chants, loud noises, and painted faces to intimidate.
The same applies to countries and nationalist feelings. Some people get upset because another person does not like their country. They do not tolerate criticism about themselves and eagerly wish for their homeland to be admired by all and to stand out in everything.
Of course, we all want to feel proud of our place of origin or the group to which we belong. However, when this transforms into situations like the above, it is no longer a healthy feeling. Sooner or later, it leads to intolerance and violence.
From Group Pride to Collective Narcissism
What is the difference between national pride, or group pride, and collective narcissism? A person infected by the virus of collective narcissism is not just proud of their group, but also needs to show that it is superior. Deep down, there is insecurity. That is why they seek affirmation of what they think by comparing themselves to others.
In any exaggerated human feeling, attitude, or behavior, there is probably some neuroticism. Narcissism is no exception. When built at the individual level, people like to show off and project an image of security to mask what they are really going through.
The same happens in the collective. Collective narcissism is more likely to flourish in groups where a weak self-image is shared. They doubt their status. That is why what they long for most is recognition from others. And not only that: also the defeat of others.
A study conducted at the University of Warsaw in Poland indicated that groups with collective narcissism are generally composed of individuals who feel quite inadequate. The group is an attempt to compensate for this perception of emptiness.
Manipulation in Narcissistic Groups
It is normal for authoritarian leaders to emerge in groups with collective narcissism—sometimes totalitarian. For followers, having an invincible leader, or at least an extremely strong one, gives them security. So, these leaders tend to exploit the situation and defend the “superiority” that those in the group have over others.
Another study also concluded that these types of groups enjoy conspiracy theories about how others are behind them. Having a common enemy strengthens the bonds within the group. The narcissism itself makes them fantasize about being observed, envied, and potentially attacked.
Aggression and revenge take on another meaning in this type of group. Committing violent acts against those who do not belong to the collective is now “positive.” This especially happens if the aggression is against a possible enemy, conspirator, or ally of enemies.
The same goes for revenge, which narcissistic groups no longer see as an irrational and harmful passion, but as a legitimate right, based on the apparent need to defend themselves.
Unlike groups with collective narcissism, groups that have a healthy sense of collective pride have positive and uplifting effects. This type of pride truly produces greater cohesion and mutual trust. The group does not feel the need to defame others or to overshadow the different.
While reasonable pride is the very foundation of democracy, collective narcissism is the basis of fascism and one of the main ways it exerts control.
Source: Edith Sánchez