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Narcissism and the Motivation to Engage in Volunteerism

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Abstract

Two studies investigated the extent to which narcissism was associated with volunteer motivation. Study 1 investigated a sample of United Way volunteers and Study 2 examined a sample of college student volunteers. As hypothesized, results found that narcissists tend to volunteer for self-interest rather than for humanitarian values. Results remained significant even while controlling for self-esteem (Studies 1 and 2) and empathic concern (Study 2). Discussion involves the current climate for volunteerism, which includes mandated volunteering as part of high school graduation and other requirements.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The Ohio State University at Mansfield, Mansfield, OH, USA

    Amy B. Brunell

  2. Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY, USA

    Laraine Tumblin

  3. The Ohio State University at Newark, Newark, OH, USA

    Melissa T. Buelow

Authors
  1. Amy B. Brunell
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  2. Laraine Tumblin
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  3. Melissa T. Buelow
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Correspondence to Amy B. Brunell.

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Brunell, A.B., Tumblin, L. & Buelow, M.T. Narcissism and the Motivation to Engage in Volunteerism. Curr Psychol 33, 365–376 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-014-9216-7

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