Hypersensitive (vulnerable) narcissism is a significant personality trait that remains inadequately researched within the Russian setting. Prior research has examined the composition of this characteristic, which is notably significant. The connections between sensitive narcissism and Dark Tetrad qualities (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism) are noteworthy. The objective of the study was to examine the structure of the Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS) and to ascertain the influence of Dark Tetrad features on the variables of hypersensitive narcissism. Initially, we posit that the framework of hypersensitive narcissism comprises two components: egocentric orientation and sensitivity to criticism. Furthermore, we contend that the traits of the Dark Tetrad predominantly impact the egocentric orientation component, while exerting minimal or no impact on the sensitivity to external evaluations component. The study comprised 741 individuals aged 18 to 64 years, with 74% being female. Research methods: Hendin and Chick’s Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale (HSNS) and the Dark Tetrad questionnaire (SD4). The research validated the presence of a bifactor structure for hypersensitive narcissism, encompassing the dimensions of egocentrism and social sensitivity, with a general factor. Elevated Machiavellianism and narcissism predominantly forecast the egocentrism component, marked by a preoccupation with personal issues and a reluctance to consider others, whereas diminished narcissism and heightened psychopathy anticipate the social sensitivity element. We identified gender and age specificity in the contributions to the determinants of sensitive narcissism. The research validated the two-factor structure of sensitive narcissism and identified distinct correlations between the dark tetrad characteristics and the variables of sensitive narcissism. This facilitates a more profound comprehension of the dual aspects of narcissism and its interplay with other personality characteristics, which is crucial for psychological assessment and therapeutic strategies.
Kornienko et al. (Wed,) studied this question.