A major new study from Michigan State University’s Department of Psychology suggests that narcissism isn’t just an American phenomenon — it’s a universal personality trait that shows up across cultures around the world.
Researchers surveyed more than 45,000 people in 53 countries about traits like self-importance, self-esteem, and empathy, and found consistent patterns everywhere. Contrary to popular belief, the United States didn’t rank in the top five for narcissistic traits. Instead, countries like Germany, Iraq, China, Nepal, and South Korea had the highest overall scores, while places like Denmark, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom had lower scores. The study also confirmed that younger adults and men tend to score higher on narcissism measures than older adults and women — and these patterns held across cultural lines. Michigan State University
As psychologists, we know that narcissism refers to a trait where someone’s focus is more heavily on themselves than on others — especially when empathy feels low and self-importance feels high. Asking where narcissism shows up across cultures helps us better understand human personality, not just stereotypes about “selfish” or “self-absorbed” people. MSU Psychology Department
It also raises an important question for all of us who care about close relationships, community, and emotional well-being: Where do you fall on the narcissism spectrum? And if you want to strengthen your capacity for empathy, connection, and other-oriented thinking, what practices can support that growth?
Quick Narcissism Screener (for Self-Reflection)
For each statement, rate yourself from 0 (not at all like me) to 4 (very much like me).
- I often think about how great I am.
- I want others to admire me.
- I find it hard to see things from other people’s perspectives.
- I enjoy being the center of attention.
- I feel entitled to special treatment.
- I prioritize my goals even when others are affected.
- I get annoyed when people don’t recognize my achievements.
Your Score Guide
• 0–14: You likely lean more other-focused or balanced.
• 15–24: You show some self-focus — common and human.
• 25+: You may have a stronger self-focused pattern in how you think and relate.
This isn’t a diagnosis. Narcissism exists on a spectrum, and a higher score doesn’t make you “bad” — it just highlights where your attention naturally lands. Many factors shape these traits, including age, experience, culture, and early life environments. MSU Psychology Department
Exercises to Build Other-Focused Habits
If you want to grow in empathy, connection, and relational balance, here are practical exercises grounded in psychological research and clinical practice:
1. Perspective-Taking Practice
Once a day for a week, pause and actively imagine someone else’s inner experience. Ask yourself:
• What might this person be feeling right now?
• What pressures or worries might they have?
• What would they most need from me?
This builds the cognitive muscles for empathy and understanding — not by minimizing yourself, but by widening your view.
2. Gratitude Reflection
Each evening, write down three things someone else did for you that day — and why it mattered. Gratitude shifts your focus from what you want to what others contribute.
3. Active Listening Drill
In one conversation per day, practice listening without planning your response while the other person is speaking. After they finish, reflect back what you heard before you add your own thoughts.
4. Service Oriented Goal
Pick one small act of service you can do each day that benefits someone else without expectation of praise — whether that’s making coffee for a colleague, offering genuine praise, or checking in with a friend who may be struggling.
5. Self-Compassion Balance
Remember that reducing self-focus doesn’t mean diminishing your worth. Practices such as journaling, mindfulness, and kind self-talk help you balance self-esteem with empathy for others.
What This Means for You
This global research reminds us that self-focus and empathy aren’t opposites — they’re part of a spectrum of human experience. Everyone has moments where they’re more inward-focused and moments where they’re more outward-focused. With intention and practice, you can grow toward the kind of relational balance that serves your values and relationships.
If you’re curious about how your own patterns show up in your life, start with the screener above and try the exercises that resonate most with your goals. Personal growth is about awareness plus action, and small shifts.
