Exact replication of Kozłowska et al. (2023) “The Napoleon complex, revisited”: Contrary evidence in a 2.6 times larger sample
Recent Publication
In a recent study with Dr Stefan Stieger (Division of Psychological Methodology), a much-discussed thesis was examined: Is there really such a thing as the ‘Napoleon complex’? While the original study found a correlation between dark personality traits (such as narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy) and short stature, the new, significantly larger sample (N = 943) shows a different picture. Although people with such traits more often wish they were taller, a direct correlation with short stature could not be confirmed.
Øvstetun, S., & Stieger, S. (2025). Exact replication of Kozłowska et al. (2023) “The Napoleon complex, revisited”: Contrary evidence in a 2.6 times larger sample. Personality and Individual Differences, 243, 113230. Article 113230. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2025.113230
Univ.-Prof. PD Mag. Dr. Stefan Stieger
Head of
Division of Psychological Methodology