Study: Reality TV Stars Are Most Narcissistic

A new study discussed in Tuesday's Los Angeles Times states that celebrities are more likely than the general population to be narcissistic. The study was conducted by Dr. Drew Pinsky (of "Loveline" fame) and he interviewed more than 200 celebrities.

According to the study:

"The average Narcissism Personality Inventory score of Americans — as demonstrated in a previous study — is 15.3 out of a possible 40. Celebrities averaged 17.8. Contrary to what occurs in the general population, women celebrities, across the board, were more narcissistic than males (19.26 versus 17.27). Musicians — who have the highest skill level — are the least narcissistic celebrity group, while reality television stars — the least talented or skilled group — are the most narcissistic."

Narcissism (or, self love) is considered part of a healthy psyche, in moderate doses. The term stems from Greek mythology. Narcissus was a handsome Greek youth who rejected the advances of a nymph. As punishment, the gods sentenced him to fall in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Ultimately unable to "consummate" his love, Narcissus eventually changed into a flower, the narcissus, which bears his name.