# Impact of narcissistic leadership in workplaces

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/impact-of-narcissistic-leadership-in-workplaces
> Updated: 2026-08-26T02:46:00.000Z. Sources: 23. Developments: 2.

Organizational psychology experts are examining the impact of narcissistic leadership traits within professional environments. Iris Gauglitz, a professor of organizational and work psychology at Neoma Business School, describes narcissism as a spectrum characterized by self-centeredness, an inflated self-image, and a desire for admiration.

This spectrum ranges from healthy self-confidence to pathological personality disorders. While some narcissistic traits may assist individuals in asserting themselves, the behavior becomes detrimental in a professional setting when it causes distress or suffering to others. Experts note that while many leaders possess high levels of self-confidence and achieve significant results, a clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder can only be made by qualified professionals.

In practice, these traits can have a dual impact. Narcissistic leaders may utilize charisma, confidence, and persuasiveness to motivate teams or secure client interest, potentially providing stability during crises. Conversely, behavior becomes problematic when leaders lack empathy, treat employees as tools for personal success, or shift blame for errors onto others. To manage these dynamics, experts suggest that employees establish clear boundaries, potentially through the assistance of a works council, to mitigate the distress or discomfort caused by such leadership styles.

Recent discussions involving experts Iris Gauglitz and Marion Thiel continue to highlight the challenges of working under narcissistic managers, emphasizing the distinction between healthy self-confidence and pathological narcissism that causes significant workplace distress. The topic remains a point of discussion within broader legal and employment contexts in Germany.

## Claims

- Narcissism involves strong self-centeredness, a desire for admiration, and an inflated self-image. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Narcissism exists on a spectrum with no clear boundary between normal and pathological traits. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Narcissism becomes problematic when behavior causes discomfort or suffering in others. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- A certain level of self-centeredness is necessary for individuals to assert themselves in the world. (corroborated by 4 sources)
- Narcissism in leadership can have positive aspects. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Charismatic and confident narcissistic leaders can motivate employees and inspire teams. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Narcissistic traits can be advantageous in sales by quickly gaining interest from customers or partners. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Narcissism becomes problematic when leaders lack empathy for team needs. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Problematic behaviors include using employees solely for personal success and blaming others for mistakes. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Employees are advised to set clear boundaries with narcissistic leaders, potentially with support from works councils. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-08-26: Germany and Austria face economic and labor shifts

Germany and Austria face various economic and legal shifts, including minijob reforms, media restructuring at Axel Springer, and court rulings on employment and electric vehicle range.

22 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/workplace-psychology-managing-narcissistic-leaders

### 2026-08-26: Narcissistic leadership: The dual impact of charisma on teams

Psychology expert Iris Gauglitz explains that while narcissistic leaders can use charisma to motivate teams and drive sales, a lack of empathy and accountability can create significant workplace issues.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/narcissistic-leadership-the-dual-impact-of-charisma-on-teams

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Cite as: Impact of narcissistic leadership in workplaces. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/impact-of-narcissistic-leadership-in-workplaces