Modelling Pathological Narcissism Using the Brief PNI in Terms of Structure and Convergent and Divergent Validity: A New Perspective

The Pathological Narcissism Inventory (PNI) is a popular measure and the first to attempt to tap into both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism (GN/VN). However, data have raised questions as to whether it appropriately formulates GN and differentiates it from VN. In this study, we examined the Brief-PNI’s structure and construct validity, by using a novel model based on the theoretical notion of GN and VN sharing core features. Participants (N = 1,061) completed the Brief-PNI, and psychological distress and social avoidance questionnaires. Results showed a better fit and differentiation of GN and VN for a model with cross-loading of shared first-order factors on GN and VN, compared with the traditional PNI structure. We concluded that the Brief-PNI can offer an appropriate formulation and differentiation of VN and GN, provided that their shared variance is considered.