Narcissism in Authoritarian Leadership

Author: Raya Sitman

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 56

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: While it is easy to determine whether a ruler is authoritarian, in the field of political psychology, there is much debate surrounding how best to define this type of leadership. Through analysis of the political psychology of authoritarians such as Vladimir Putin, Adolf Hitler, and Saddam Hussein, this work aims to define narcissistic authoritarian leadership, adding more consistency to the literature as well as determining the benefits and consequences of this type of leadership. This research shows that narcissistic authoritarian leadership occurs when a ruler puts an emphasis on their power and desires rather than on what is best for the people. The autocrat uses grandiosity and cruelty to gain power, but these traits are also the very traits that will inevitably lead to their downfall. These findings aim to create more consistency in the literature and develop a more well-rounded discussion surrounding authoritarianism.