Keywords
church, narcissism, pastors, pastoral theology
Abstract
Can churches take on the pathological behaviors associated with narcissism through the influence of a narcissistic pastor? While there is a large body of literature on narcissistic individuals, and a smaller body of research into narcissistic organizations, there is little research on the prevalence of toxic narcissism in clergy and little to none on narcissistic churches. This paper is written from the perspective of currently available research and the author’s experience in working with churches suffering from severe internal conflicts in which both the pastor and church evidenced toxic levels of narcissism. The intent is to increase awareness, open a dialogue and spur research into the phenomenon of narcissistic clergy and how they influence their churches.
Erratum
An earlier edition of this article included an article in the References which was not cited in the body of the article. This reference has been removed.
Recommended Citation
Puls, D. (2020). Narcissistic Pastors and the Making of Narcissistic Churches. Great Commission Research Journal, 12(1), 67-92. Retrieved from https://place.asburyseminary.edu/gcrj/vol12/iss1/5
Included in
Christianity Commons, Practical Theology Commons, Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion Commons
