Are you conceited? Before you answer, check your credit card bill. Narcissists are more likely to splurge on expensive stuff, finds a new British study.
Researchers analyzed participants’ shopping preferences and found that self-absorbed people sought more exclusive, customizable products than their humbler counterparts, and were willing to shell out more dough to get what they wanted.
Why? The researchers say narcissists feel better about themselves when they purchase stuff that positively distinguishes them from others—like that 82-inch TV no one else in the neighborhood would buy.
And while a little self-love is fine, too much confidence can lead to a lack of empathy toward others, and a tendency to react aggressively to criticism, says Sara Konrath, Ph.D., a psychology professor at the University of Michigan.
To knock your narcissism down a few pegs, start spending time with people who share a common interest, Konrath recommends. Maybe join a running club, or meet up with fellow alumni to watch your college team on TV. In a separate study, Konrath found that focusing on a shared trait makes narcissists less pushy and helps them to care more about others.
And to rein in your spending habits, check out these tips to save more cash without skimping out on the stuff you need.
Additional reporting by Denny Watkins
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