
Narcissists always give themselves away — with this one bad habit that's tough to hide
Looking to weed out the narcissists in your life? Researchers say there's one, hard-to-hide habit the unpalatable personality type finds impossible to break.
The way they engage with their smartphones can tell you everything you need to know, new findings reveal — those with narcissistic tendencies are significantly more likely to exhibit problematic patterns of scrolling, posting, and liking social media posts.
4 A narcissist a person who has an excessive interest in or admiration of themselves.
Galina_lya – stock.adobe.com
The data, published in the Journal of Research in Personality, shows that a person's social media behavior could be an indicator that someone is a bit too into themselves.
Social media addiction goes beyond heavy usage. It includes behaviors like compulsively checking for updates, being unable to cut back despite negative consequences, and relying on online interactions for emotional satisfaction.
These behaviors can lead to problems in real life — including sleep problems, reduced face-to-face interaction, and poor job or academic performance.
The team worked to explore not just whether narcissism and addiction are linked, but how they might influence each other over time.
4 A new study found that those with narcissistic tendencies are significantly more likely to exhibit problematic patterns of scrolling, posting, and liking social media posts.
motortion – stock.adobe.com
To begin, they identified six forms of narcissism: admiration, rivalry, enmity, isolation, heroism, and sanctity.
The study sample was comprised of 339 adults aged 19 to 41, living in Poland. They all completed multiple assessments, answered questions about their social media use, and filled out established measures of narcissism and social networking addiction focused on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
The results showed that individuals who scored high in nearly every form of narcissism — except sanctity— also reported higher levels of social media addiction.
4 The team discovered that individuals who scored high in nearly every form of narcissism — except sanctity— also reported higher levels of social media addiction.
Valerii Honcharuk – stock.adobe.com
However, the dynamic between the two varied depending on the type of narcissism.
Those with heroism, admiration, and rivalry had what researchers called a 'reciprocal' relationship with addiction.
When one went up, the other tended to go down over time, suggesting a push-pull dynamic where users may alternate between bursts of ego-driven behavior and periods of compulsive social media use. This hints at an internal struggle between seeking admiration and dealing with the consequences of addiction.
4 Social media addiction has been found to led to behaviors that can lead to problems IRL, including sleep problems, reduced face-to-face interaction, and poor job or academic performance.
9nong – stock.adobe.com
In contrast, enmity (a hostile, antagonistic form of narcissism) and isolation (withdrawn and cold) tracked in sync with social media addiction. When usage spiked, so did these darker narcissistic traits — and vice versa.
That suggests these traits may actually worsen the addiction or feed off it in a continuous loop.
So, what does this mean for the average user?
If someone is constantly glued to their phone, obsessing over likes and followers, they might not just be addicted to their feed — they could also be revealing something about their personality.
And if their behavior seems driven by a need for admiration or marked by antagonism, you might be looking at a narcissistic pattern.
Of course, the researchers caution that their study was based entirely on self-report data, which means some findings could be influenced by how honestly participants assessed their own behaviors and traits.
Still, the study opens a fascinating window into how our online habits mirror our inner worlds.
So next time you find yourself — or someone else — unable to stop refreshing that Instagram feed, it might be worth asking: Is this just a bad habit — or a sign of something worse?

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Buzz Feed
2 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
37 Infuriating People Who Don't Think They're A Problem
This entitled mom who thinks the world (and this cake, apparently) revolves around her: This person, who can probably stop wondering why they're still on a dating app: This American who didn't like when their logic was used against them: The hotel that advertised this "Kids Eat Free" breakfast that was, uh, not free to say the least: The person who wrote this question, because everyone knows a shared ping pong table at work is way more important than a livable wage: This aunt who decided to hijack a relative's Facebook post announcing the birth of their literal child, because her great grandson turned 1 month old on the same day: The hotel owner who decided that "breakfast included with stay" means a Pop-Tart, some Sunny D, and a bag of Ruffles: This a-hole who is so out of touch, he literally responded to his friend being short on cash by saying, "Come have some LOBSTER with us": This girlypop who will not be impressed unless you break the bank to woo her: The passive-aggressive coworker who put up these signs about *checks notes* sniffling: This CAT shampoo that says "cat" in the title, in the instructions, AND has a massive cat on the bottle, but in teeny tiny font says, "for use on dogs only": This absolutely bonkers HOA with a policy requiring all dog owners to register their dogs' DNA for $86 each so they can test any poop they find in the neighborhood: Here's what the letter says:"Dog Registration Policy All dogs that live in or visit the [REDACTED] are required to be registered in a DNA database. This program is run by [REDACTED] for Poo Prints and works by creating a unique DNA profile for each dog in the community. The DNA is collected by swabbing the inside of the dog's mouth to collect cheek cells. The DNA profiles of all the dogs in the community are entered into a database stored by [REDACTED] Lab. When a waste sample is found, it is collected by our management company and sent to the lab. The DNA in the dog's feces is matched to a dog in the system and the violator is fined and charged for the cost of the analysis. New and existing dogs and visiting dogs of existing owners are required to be registered within 2 weeks of program implementation or occupancy or visit. The cost for the DNA program registration is $86.14 per dog. This cost covers the DNA swabbing, DNA collection kit, and database registration. Payment can be made with your regular monthly assessment. Pet Registration is [REDACTED] regular scheduled times at the community clubhouse or by appointment at [REDACTED]. Please email DNA Program Manager [REDACTED] with any questions or to make an appointment. FINE SCHEDULE First Fine = Analysis and test fee and postage Second Fine = $150 plus analysis fee and postage Third Fine = $150 plus analysis fee and postage Analysis fee and postage = $147.30 Failure to register a dog within 2 weeks of move in = Progressive fines starting at $150, up to $500 per month." This Uber driver who is putting both of their lives in jeopardy because he can't go ten minutes without watching a TikTok: This mom who got mad at her kid for "stealing her birthday weekend" (spoiler alert: it was her idea and she didn't remember, so she decided to make it everyone else's problem): This (hopefully ex) friend who was certainly not happy that his "bro" thoughtfully commissioned some art of him and his recently deceased dog instead of getting something more flashy for his birthday: The genius who asked for a photo of the item missing in this person's order (which they can't get a refund or replacement without): The bank employee who saved this girl's number when she opened an account and texted her to go dancing?? As if she'd find that anything other than wildly creepy?: This supervisor who apparently has never heard someone say, "Your poor planning does not constitute an emergency for me.": This Airbnb host who tried to charge a customer ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS for turning down the thermostat: The grinches, I mean, residents of this apartment complex who went to a building-wide game night and stole all the games and snacks so nobody else could have fun: This person who not only took three years to pay their friend back, but also did in in the pettiest way possible: This shopper who said, "Oh, you know where I should leave this raw chicken I picked up and no longer want? In the food warmer!" like an entitled a-hole: The landlord who is renting out a $1,200 apartment with NO KITCHEN: This landlord who agreed to give the tenant leaving the house a 24-hour warning before bringing new tenants for a decidedly did not: The chef who put sausage and peppers on the appetizer then proceeded to plate them like this: This waiter, who really tried to sneak an $87 tip from a customer on an order that was $38: For context, the tip was intended to be $7, and the order total was written as $45.23 on the receipt. The fast-food employee who read "extra cheese" and maliciously complied: This online shop that asks for tips at checkout, because apparently, we do that everywhere now: This Facebook Marketplace seller who had a customer driving 45 minutes to purchase a bookshelf, but decided to sell it to someone else while the original customer was on the way: This grocery store bakery that could really use an in-house editor: This Amtrak employee who said, "I can't see the problem, so there is none, bye!" This boss who asked an employee to work a 17-hour shift (3:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.) on the 4th of July so he didn't have to work for 12 hours: This company that sent out a whole ass package that definitely could've just been an email: The designer who wrapped a bunch of planks together, called it a table, and said, "Here, damn!": The person who left this warning on someone's car literalllllly right in front of the "visitors parking" sign: The neighbor who saw absolutely nothing wrong with blocking the street for several days so other people can't access their homes while they renovate their own: And finally, this person, who expressed feelings for their roommate (who is in a long-term relationship), was expectedly turned down, then decided to send them a cute little text out of the blue saying they need to move out:


Vox
2 hours ago
- Vox
Most couples used to meet this way. What happened?
Like many women these days, 30-year-old Jude Cohen is over dating apps. So she's decided to relinquish some of the responsibility in finding a partner: 'I'm asking my friends to set me up,' the New York City-based communications consultant says. Late last year, a family friend heeded the call and, without warning, introduced Cohen to a potential date via text. The man lived in her hometown, hundreds of miles away, but she wasn't opposed to long distance. Prior to their date a few weeks later — Cohen was back in town for a wedding — she knew scant about him. She made an attempt to find her date's Instagram but was unsuccessful. The date was fine, she says, and the conversation was 'lovely.' But Cohen just wasn't attracted to her date. Ironically, if he lived in New York, she'd have plenty of friends to set him up with. Still, Cohen is holding out hope for a successful setup. 'I continue to ask my friends to set me up,' Cohen says. 'It was not a deterrent that the first time didn't work out. All in all, it wasn't a bad experience. It's just a part of the numbers game that you have to play to find your person.' Vox Culture Culture reflects society. Get our best explainers on everything from money to entertainment to what everyone is talking about online. Email (required) Sign Up By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. The setup can feel like a relic of a bygone era of dating. Introducing two friends who might be romantically compatible seems quaint in a time when people can filter through singles based on the most granular qualities on apps. But for most of modern dating, heterosexual couples were most likely to meet their spouse through friends. That is, until the 2010s, when meeting online overtook friend-facilitated introductions, a trend that has only accelerated since then. According to one study, only 20 percent of straight couples met through friends in 2017, compared to 39 percent who met online. Compare that to 1995, when a third of couples met through friends and only 2 percent met online. It's safe to say that the setup is, if not dead, on life support. But as more singles grow frustrated with dating apps and yearn for more organic connection, could a return to the setup be in order? Are singles willing to surrender control in pursuit of a partner? Related Delete your dating apps and find romance offline 'Of all the things I've heard people say they're doing to try to meet people more organically,' says Liesel Sharabi, an associate professor in human communication at Arizona State University, 'getting set up isn't one that I've had people tell me that they're really longing to go back to. For some of them, they probably never experienced it.' From introductions to algorithms Coupling up only became an individual pursuit recently. Historically, choosing a partner was a group affair. Outsiders have had influence on romantic relationships in myriad ways: For centuries, parents the world over have had some degree of control over who their children married (and in some cultures, they still do); a long line of matchmakers worked to connect families in their communities; and friends, extended family, neighbors, coworkers, and other group members all had a stake in who their friends paired off with. A study from 1991 found that when a couple felt their family and friends approved of their relationship, they were more likely to stay together. (It should be noted that study participants were primarily middle-class college students.) The setup comes with clear upsides. If a mutual friend thinks there might be something between two people in their orbit and goes out of their way to make an introduction, that speaks volumes. Knowing this person has been vetted and vouched for in some way is appealing. A setup has built-in accountability, too. Your date may be less likely to be a jerk if they know their behavior might get back to their friends. But being this intertwined can also get awkward in the event of a fight or breakup, when personal moments are suddenly fodder for group gossip. Over the last few decades, choosing a partner became a more private pursuit. The facilitating friends also have a lot at stake. Research shows that playing matchmaker for friends is associated with higher wellbeing, happiness, and, overall, is a rewarding experience. The matchmaker might feel a sense of ownership over the fledgling couple, the reason for their love. A successful setup has implications beyond the couple themselves, too — the friend group deepens with new connections and can fracture if the relationship dissolves, with mutual friends choosing sides or dividing time between exes. But over the last few decades, choosing a partner became a more private pursuit, says Reuben J. Thomas, an associate professor of sociology at the University of New Mexico. Instead of leaning on social networks to facilitate a match, dating is now 'a very personal quest to find a relationship that helps you become the person you want to be, the best you, to 'self-actualize' through your relationship/marriage (and to leave the relationship if it hampers that),' Thomas says in an email. Instead of relying on the extended network of your community, you can sort through profiles of hundreds of strangers from the privacy and comfort of your bedroom. One of dating apps' greatest strengths is their ability to connect users to people outside of their social network. Most Americans marry people of similar racial, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and dating apps have the power to at least diversify the dating pool, if not totally buck the trend. Your friends and family are limited in their social reach; they only interact with a finite number of people at work, at school, at clubs. There's an even greater cap on how many of those people are single. 'People's friendship circles tend to have fewer single people in them as they age beyond early adulthood, as more and more of their friends enter marriages and long-term relationships,' Thomas says. With increased exposure to a diverse array of strangers, singles on apps have more control over their love lives. In a period of history when Americans are spending less time with friends — and more time alone — you might not want to wait around for a pal to set you up with their coworker, nor should you have to. 'That's quite a bit different than how we've always met our partners,' Sharabi says. 'Usually, we run in the same network, we have the same habits, routines. When you talk about introducing somebody who's entirely independent from that, it does change the dynamic a little bit.' Removing friends and family from the romantic equation has some downsides, Sharabi says. In a study, Sharabi found that couples who met online reported slightly less satisfying and stable marriages than those who met offline. This can be attributed to lingering stigma around app-faciliated connections and family members who may judge a partner from outside their circles more harshly. 'Now you've got friends and family that are really disconnected from the process as well. They're not always supportive of the relationship,' Sharabi says. 'You're out there meeting strangers who they may or may not approve of because they just don't know them.' The new dating experience The setup may also not mesh with modern dating's array of expectations. The amount of information app users have access to prior to a date — an assortment of photos, interests, career, even weeks' worth of conversation — far exceeds the brief bit of background a friend may offer before setting you up. Another expectation of digital courtship — that the 'perfect' person is just a swipe away — can further dilute the allure of a setup. If the date you met online fails to meet your standards, hope springs eternal that the next profile will check all your boxes. With seemingly endless options, singles might discount someone simply because they don't have the right look or the right job. The nature of the setup is virtually the opposite: Here's one person you might jive with. If you aren't satisfied, it might be awkward with your mutual friend — and you'll be sent straight back to the dating apps. 'I feel like my friends have been single for so long,' says Maxine Simone Williams, the founder of the speed dating event series We Met IRL, 'they have a laundry list of what they want, which makes it even harder to set them up, because it's like, well, you don't want this.' On rare occasions, Williams has seen some event attendees walk in, survey the room, and leave. 'They're like, nobody here was my type,' she says. As much as modern daters lament the constant rejection and expendability of modern dating culture, it's also possible that they enjoy being in the driver's seat and having control. 'You do often hear people yearning for a simpler time of romance, but I think in reality they would hate it if society went back to the old ways,' of family-controlled marriages and having fewer options, Thomas says. 'Losing the ability to just shop for potential partners oneself, to have choice and agency, to be able to take the initiative and fairly quickly find a date in a big online space full of options, losing that would greatly frustrate most people today.' When it comes to dating in college, Chicago-based marketing intern Aliza Akhter has relied on apps to meet other singles. The last time the 20-year-old met a significant other through friends was in high school. To Akhter, setups are something her parents' generation did. Her friends don't ask each other if they have other single friends. She'd be open to meeting someone at a friend's party or even a setup date, but she's in the minority, she says. 'If you're single, it's pretty much a given that you either have a dating app or you have at some point,' Akhter says. 'So maybe it's just the fact that people know that there's another easier option than the introduction.' Algorithms have replaced the role of family and friends in facilitating relationships. Still, the fate of the setup isn't all grim. In recent research, Arielle Kuperberg, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, has found among thousands of college students nationwide, more are now meeting romantic partners through friends and family than they were in 2019. Fewer are meeting partners online compared to 2020, when nearly a quarter of respondents met their significant other online. 'We have a five-year period we look at in this paper, from 2019 through 2024,' Kuperberg says, 'and the last year was the highest rate at which people were met through friends and family. So I think there could be a comeback.' Sharabi, however, is not as optimistic. 'I think it's dead,' she says, 'and I think that dating apps killed it.' In her view, algorithms have replaced the role of family and friends in facilitating relationships and despite apps' negative publicity as of late, she doesn't see them disappearing altogether. But if Jude Cohen, the freelance communications consultant in New York, has anything to say about it, the setup will live on. Cohen and her friends have sought to make the experience more joyful by organizing what they call the 'Blind Date Club' where each friend is tasked with bringing a date to dinner for another person in the group. Some brought friends of friends, others made dating app profiles on behalf of their pal. ('It was very clear on the profile I'm swiping for my friend Amy,' Cohen says.) Cohen found a date for her friend John by posting a video on TikTok. Five out of the six couples extended their date beyond the initial dinner. Cohen was one of them — she had a few more dates with her setup, too. Although none of the matches grew into anything more serious, Blind Date Club was a whimsical way of bringing community back into dating.


Newsweek
5 hours ago
- Newsweek
Unexpected Passenger Boards Subway 'Like She Was Headed To Work'—Goes Viral
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A surprise commuter on a New York City subway has captured the internet's heart after hopping aboard like she had somewhere to be. New Yorker @pocahontae8 shared a now-viral TikTok video showing a tiny gray tabby kitten casually jumping onto the train. The video has since garnered 1.2 million likes and 8 million views. "Y'all a kitten just hopped on the train like she was headed to work. Only in NYC," reads the text overlay on the clip. The footage shows the kitten joining morning commuters, clearly unfazed by the hustle of the city. One passenger scoops up the confused feline, seemingly unsure what to do next. Another eventually takes her off the train, likely to help find her a home or reunite her with an owner. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, it's important to approach carefully. You should check if the cat is truly stray or simply lost, according to PetMD. Look for signs of ownership like a collar or friendliness. Bringing the cat to a vet to scan for a microchip is the best next step. If there's no ID, consider contacting a local shelter or rescue group—or, if you're able, providing temporary foster care. TikTok users were quick to share their reactions to the unexpected moment. "You don't understand how bad I just panicked cuz I thought the kitten will fall through the crack," said Moneka. "Great they kidnapped the kitten while it was on its way to a job interview," joked Mahir. A stock image showing a subway train. A stock image showing a subway train. tifonimages/iStock / Getty Images Plus "Kitten was like 'excuse me I'm part of the distribution system and I was told my person would be here,'" another user commented. "I'm so glad that woman took her!!" said Amber. "THANK YOU TO THE GIRL WHO TOOK THE KITTEN! May she bring you joy for the rest of her life! I hope you keep her!" wrote Lula. "I'd of taken that baby immediately no hesitation," said Abigail. "PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE put this to the song 9-5," added Mia, referencing the classic Dolly Parton hit. "I have never seen the cat distribution system deliver on the train," another user added. A stock image showing a kitten walking. A stock image showing a kitten walking. Valentin Zlydennyy/iStock / Getty Images Plus "Kitten is just trying to apply for bodega jobs," quipped another user. "God bless that girl who took that precious kitten," added Anne. Newsweek reached out to @pocahontae8 for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.