Title: Why Is Donald Trump So Popular? | Psychology Today
Headings: Why Is Donald Trump So Popular?
Vinita Mehta Ph.D., Ed.M.
Why Is Donald Trump So Popular?
Research may explain The Donald's rise in the polls.

Content: They were then given a questionnaire comprised of statements that are characteristic of a narcissistic leader as well as a prototypical leader, and indicated how their ideal leader for the given company would answer the items. What did the researchers find? In uncertain contexts the preference for narcissistic leaders increases. More specifically, when conditions were uncertain high narcissists were thought to reduce uncertainty more than low narcissists, which also led others to select them as leaders more often. High narcissists were seen as tough, arrogant, manipulative, and lacking in empathy. Yet when uncertainty abounds, people tend to judge high narcissists more positively as leaders in spite of their toxic attributes. Times are tough. As a nation, we are contending with numerous challenges, including the economy, the job market, and the war on terror. Perhaps Mr. Trump's seeming narcissism provides people with the feeling that if he were in charge, someone would know what they're doing — and reduce anxiety. Whether he's the best choice to lead the country is another matter.