While there is limited research specifically on the relationship between narcissism and pupil dilation, changes in pupil size can be associated with emotional arousal in general, including anger.
Pupil dilation is part of the autonomic nervous system response, which regulates various bodily functions, including the size of the pupils. When a person experiences strong emotions like anger or excitement, the autonomic nervous system may trigger the dilation of the pupils.
Several factors can contribute to why a narcissist's pupils may dilate when they are mad:
Emotional arousal: Like anyone else experiencing intense emotions, a narcissist's pupils might dilate when they are angry or upset.
Attention-seeking behavior: Narcissists often crave attention and want to be the center of focus. Dilated pupils might draw attention to their emotional state and elicit responses from others.
Intense emotional reactions: Narcissists may have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to heightened responses and exaggerated expressions, which could include pupil dilation.
It's important to note that pupil dilation alone is not enough to diagnose someone as a narcissist or determine their emotional state accurately. Pupil size can be influenced by various factors, including lighting conditions, drug use, or even changes in cognitive processing unrelated to emotions.
If you're dealing with someone who exhibits narcissistic traits and you find their behavior concerning or distressing, it's essential to focus on your well-being and consider seeking support from a mental health professional to cope with the challenges of dealing with such individuals.