Digital Smarts - Link Between Social Media and Narcissism? Not Always for Younger Generation

While researchers say teens view social media as a way to communicate, parents should know that frequent posting is not necessarily tied to narcissistic behavior in younger people. "You really want to look not at what they post," said Larry Rosen of California State University, Dominguez Hills, "but how they react back when somebody dismisses them, makes fun of them, says their post is silly." Rosen further emphasizes that teens who are taught to reflect before they post are able to make more intentional choices online. Narcissistic patterns are subtle, but a strong reaction to criticism can indicate narcissistic tendencies.