Abstract
Some theorists and clinicians have pointed out that self-image and self-esteem of a narcissist were unstable. This study explored the relationship of narcissistic tendency, instability of self-image, and level of self-esteem and its stability. Narcissistic Personality Inventory Short Version(NPI-S)and Stability of Self Scale were administered. Then, daily experiences and their evaluation were recorded for six consecutive days, along with daily self-esteem, by 184 undergraduates(a mean age of 20.3 years). Results indicated that two of the narcissist factors: sense of superiority and competence and assertiveness, positively correlated with level of daily self-esteem. Instability of self-image was a mediator of the effects of the other narcissist factor: need for attention and praise. The instability, which had a positive correlation with the need, correlated negatively with level of daily self-esteem, and positively with instability of daily self-esteem.
