The article presents a dynamic self-regulatory processing model of narcissism, proposing that narcissism is a complex psychological phenomenon involving motivated self-construction through cognitive, affective, and interpersonal processes. The model suggests that narcissists have a grandiose yet vulnerable self-concept, which drives them to seek continuous external self-affirmation. However, their self-regulatory efforts often backfire, as they are insensitive to others' concerns and view others as inferior, leading to counterproductive outcomes and undermining their self-image. The model connects narcissism to other social processing models in personality and highlights the paradoxes of narcissistic behavior, such as seeking admiration while being easily threatened and sensitive to feedback. The article also discusses empirical evidence supporting the model, including studies on narcissists' interpersonal and intrapersonal self-regulation, their tendency to derogate others, and their emotional reactivity. It further explores the instability of narcissistic self-concepts, which are both grandiose and fragile, and how they contribute to interpersonal difficulties. The research underscores the importance of understanding narcissism as a self-regulatory process rather than a static trait, offering insights into the psychological dynamics underlying narcissistic behavior.The article presents a dynamic self-regulatory processing model of narcissism, proposing that narcissism is a complex psychological phenomenon involving motivated self-construction through cognitive, affective, and interpersonal processes. The model suggests that narcissists have a grandiose yet vulnerable self-concept, which drives them to seek continuous external self-affirmation. However, their self-regulatory efforts often backfire, as they are insensitive to others' concerns and view others as inferior, leading to counterproductive outcomes and undermining their self-image. The model connects narcissism to other social processing models in personality and highlights the paradoxes of narcissistic behavior, such as seeking admiration while being easily threatened and sensitive to feedback. The article also discusses empirical evidence supporting the model, including studies on narcissists' interpersonal and intrapersonal self-regulation, their tendency to derogate others, and their emotional reactivity. It further explores the instability of narcissistic self-concepts, which are both grandiose and fragile, and how they contribute to interpersonal difficulties. The research underscores the importance of understanding narcissism as a self-regulatory process rather than a static trait, offering insights into the psychological dynamics underlying narcissistic behavior.