The mediating role of authenticity in the relationship of vulnerable narcissism and rejection sensitivity with psychological symptoms: A study in a mental health and disorders hospital

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between individuals' levels of fragile narcissism and rejection sensitivity and their psychological symptoms. In addition, it aims to identify the mediating role of authenticity in the effects of fragile narcissism and rejection sensitivity on psychological symptoms The sample of the study consisted of a total of 251 participants (170 women, 81 men), all aged 18 and above, who applied to mental health services. Among them, 136 participants had received a psychiatric diagnosis, while 115 had not. Data were collected online and in person through a Demographic Information Form, the Fragile Narcissism Scale, the Rejection Sensitivity Scale, the Authenticity Scale, and the Brief Symptom Inventory. Data analysis was conducted using the SPSS program and Hayes' (2018) PROCESS Macro Model 4. First, normality tests for the distribution of variables were conducted, followed by descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentages. The relationships between variables were examined using Pearson Correlation Analysis, and positive significant relationships were found between fragile narcissism, rejection sensitivity, and psychological symptoms, while negative significant relationships were detected between authenticity and the other variables. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that fragile narcissism, rejection sensitivity, and authenticity significantly predicted psychological symptoms, with authenticity showing a negative effect in this model. Mediation analyses indicated that authenticity played a partial mediating role in the relationships between fragile narcissism, rejection sensitivity, and psychological symptoms. The results obtained from the study were discussed in light of the literature, and suggestions for future research were provided.