It's important to note that narcissism can be found in both men and women, and it's not necessarily "rare" to find a narcissistic woman. However, there are some factors that may contribute to the perception that narcissistic women are less common:
Cultural and societal norms: Historically, many societies have emphasized traditional gender roles, where men were often encouraged to display assertiveness, dominance, and self-centered behavior, while women were encouraged to be more nurturing and empathetic. This might have led to a stereotype that narcissism is more commonly associated with men.
Diagnostic biases: There could be diagnostic biases at play, with mental health professionals and society being more inclined to overlook or misdiagnose narcissistic traits in women. This could be due to the expectation that women are naturally more empathetic and selfless, leading to an underestimation of narcissism in females.
Presentation of narcissism: Narcissism can manifest differently in men and women. While some traits may be similar, research suggests that men may be more likely to exhibit grandiose narcissism (e.g., feeling superior, seeking admiration), whereas women may lean more towards vulnerable narcissism (e.g., hypersensitivity to criticism, feelings of inadequacy). The different presentations might make it less obvious or recognizable in women.
Socialization and upbringing: Cultural norms and upbringing may influence the development of narcissistic traits differently in men and women. For example, studies have suggested that parents may be more likely to encourage assertiveness and self-promotion in boys, which could contribute to the development of narcissistic traits.
Underreporting and stigmatization: There could be underreporting of narcissistic traits in women due to the stigma associated with this personality trait. Some women may not be open about their narcissistic tendencies, which might make it seem less prevalent.
It's essential to remember that not all individuals who display self-centered behaviors have Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). NPD is a clinical diagnosis that requires a specific set of criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It's crucial not to generalize or stereotype individuals based on gender, as narcissism can be present in both men and women, albeit sometimes expressed differently.