#Governance

A growing body of research shows how leaders with narcissistic traits respond when confronted with errors. High-profile figures, including former political leaders, often react defensively or aggressively. Findings suggest these patterns reflect broader dynamics in workplaces and governments worldwide, with clear implications for Thailand’s evolving business, public sector, and academic communities.

Narcissistic leaders tend to deny mistakes, blame others, gaslight critics, minimize issues, erupt in anger, withdraw, or cast themselves as victims when errors surface. These responses reflect fragile self-esteem that cannot tolerate personal fault. Understanding these dynamics helps Thai organizations manage risk, preserve trust, and sustain learning as the country modernizes its institutions.

A fresh wave of psychological research is offering valuable insights into why high-profile figures such as former US president Donald Trump—and other leaders with pronounced narcissistic traits—react so defensively, or even aggressively, when confronted with evidence of their own mistakes. Drawing on interviews, recent peer-reviewed studies, and organizational psychology, experts say these reactions are not just personality quirks, but reflect deeper dynamics in workplaces and governments worldwide—raising profound questions about power, accountability, and the future of leadership, including in Thailand’s evolving corporate, political, and academic environments.