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Understanding defensive and secure in-group positivity: The role of collective narcissism

Cichocka, Aleksandra (2016) Understanding defensive and secure in-group positivity: The role of collective narcissism. European Review of Social Psychology, 27 (1). pp. 283-317. ISSN 1046-3283. (doi:10.1080/10463283.2016.1252530) (KAR id:59490)

Abstract

Integrating psychoanalytic ideas of group idealisation with social identity and categorisation theories, this article discusses the distinction between secure and defensive in-group positivity. Narcissistic in-group positivity captures a belief in in-group greatness that is contingent on external validation. It reflects defensive in-group positivity, insofar as it stems from the frustration of individual needs, and predicts increased sensitivity to threats as well as undesirable consequences for out-groups and the in-group. Secure in-group positivity—that is, in-group positivity without the narcissistic component—is a confidently held positive evaluation of one’s in-group that is independent of the recognition of the group in the eyes of others. It stems from the satisfaction of individual needs, is resilient to threats and has positive consequences for the in-group and out-groups. I review evidence for these two distinct ways people relate to their social groups and discuss theoretical and practical implications for understanding intra- and intergroup relations.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1080/10463283.2016.1252530
Uncontrolled keywords: Collective narcissism, in-group identification, defensiveness, intragroup processes, prejudice
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Human and Social Sciences > School of Psychology
Depositing User: Aleksandra Cichocka
Date Deposited: 06 Dec 2016 17:56 UTC
Last Modified: 04 Mar 2024 18:14 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/59490 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

University of Kent Author Information

Cichocka, Aleksandra.

Creator's ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1703-1586
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