This puffed-up self-image often masks insecurity. When someone punctures the ego of or insults a person with narcissism, he or she may lash out with demeaning or intimidating language and actions. Many studies link narcissism with higher levels of aggression and violence. Because people with narcissism think everything is about them, they hear others’ attempts to talk about personal feelings as veiled criticisms of themselves. If they feel piqued, they may react aggressively.