Volume 23, Issue 3 (12-2025)
RBS 2025, 23(3): 486-506 |
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Almasi kopaee M, Khaleghipour S. The Mediating Role of Self-Compassion and Mentalization in the Relationship between Idealistic Expectations and Emotional Deficiency with Narcissism in Men. RBS 2025; 23 (3) :486-506
URL: http://rbs.mui.ac.ir/article-1-1938-en.html
URL: http://rbs.mui.ac.ir/article-1-1938-en.html
1- Department of Psychology, Nae.C., Islamic Azad University, Naein, Iran.
2- Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Nae.C., Islamic Azad University, Naein, Iran. ,sh.khaleghipour@iau.ac.ir
2- Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Nae.C., Islamic Azad University, Naein, Iran. ,
Abstract: (30 Views)
Aim and Background: Narcissism originates from the intertwining of cognitive and emotional processes and may lead to maladaptive patterns in self-perception and interpersonal relationships. The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of self-compassion and mentalization in the relationship between idealistic expectations and emotional deficiency with narcissism among adult men.
Methods and Materials: This descriptive-correlational study employed structural equation modeling SEM for data analysis. The statistical population consisted of all adult men in Isfahan, from which 300 participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (Bagby, Parker & Taylor, 1994), the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (Hewitt & Flett, 1991), the Self-Compassion Scale (Raes et al., 2011), the Mentalization Questionnaire (Fonagy et al., 1997), and the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Ames et al., 2006).
Findings: Results showed that idealistic expectations and emotional deficiency had direct and significant effects on narcissistic tendencies. In contrast, self-compassion and mentalization exerted negative and significant influences, acting as powerful mediators that clearly explained the indirect pathways. The model demonstrated satisfactory fit, and all hypothesized relationships were confirmed.
Conclusions: Therefore, it can be concluded that Enhancing mentalization capacity and cultivating self-compassion can reduce vulnerabilities associated with emotional deficiency and idealistic expectations, thereby playing an effective role in moderating narcissism. These findings may provide a foundation for designing targeted psychotherapeutic interventions for men who struggle with emotion regulation difficulties and narcissistic traits.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
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Received: 2025/05/5 | Accepted: 2026/01/6 | Published: 2025/12/1
Received: 2025/05/5 | Accepted: 2026/01/6 | Published: 2025/12/1
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