The title for the NBC news story on this topic: "Generation I." Some students were interviewed about the study. Did they think there was a problem? OF COURSE NOT. They tried to justify it by saying it would help them get results (this from the slacker generation), or that they were still "finding themselves" (naturally, since they have no real roots in family and community, no sense of duty and responsibility). And would the news crew have given the opinion of a student who agreed with the study? PROBABLY NOT.
NPR: Study Sees Rise in Narcissism Among Students
Day to Day, February 27, 2007 · College students today are more narcissistic and self-centered than a generation ago, according to a study released by San Diego State University. Students' scores on the study's Narcissistic Personality
Inventory have steadily risen since the test was introduced in 1982.
In their study, researchers trace the phenomenon back to the
"self-esteem movement" that began in in the 1980s. And, they say, young people's self-regard is fueled by current technologies such as MySpace and YouTube.
Study psychologists worry the trend, attributable to the influences of schools, media and parents, could be harmful to personal relationships and American society. The study says narcissists are more likely to have short-lived romantic relationships and lack empathy.
Jean Twenge, the study's lead author, talks with Alex Chadwick.
What will be the consequences of this continued growth in self-absorption and self-centeredness? What about all that talk about young people seeking to serve the country after 9/11?
Faculty page for Jean Twenge. Her book: Generation Me: Why Today's Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled -- and More Miserable Than Ever Before.
Christopher Lasch, The Culture of Narcissism
The Gift of Christopher Lasch
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