Do Narcissistic People Have More Dating Success? Evidence From a Speed-Dating Study

This study explored whether narcissistic individuals are more likely to be chosen for a second date in speed-dating contexts. While research has examined the effects of global grandiose narcissism in speed-dating contexts, it has ignored vulnerable narcissism and facets of grandiose narcissism (i.e., admirative and rivalrous narcissism).

Across eight speed-dating events, 129 undergraduate participants completed measures of admirative, rivalrous, and vulnerable narcissism, rated their dates on five characteristics associated with dating success (physical attractiveness, intelligence, humor, ambition, and kindness), and indicated whether they would like a second date with their partner.

People higher in vulnerable narcissism were less likely to be chosen for a second date because they were rated as less physically attractive and humorous. People higher in rivalrous narcissism were more likely to be chosen for a second date. Finally, women (but not men) higher in admirative narcissism were less likely to be chosen for a second date.

These findings suggest a nuanced answer to whether narcissistic people are more adept at getting second dates and broadly show the utility of conceptualizing narcissism as a tripartite construct.