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MENTAL MODEL · M0619

Narcissism of Small Differences

Narcissism of Small Differences
BehaviorHigh supportPsychology
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Freud pointed out that groups often become hostile to each other because of very small differences in doctrine or identity, and the smallest disagreements among those who are similar are most likely to provoke strong rejection.

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Similar groups are hostile to each other due to minor differences.

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A concept proposed by Freud: groups or individuals that are very close in relationship, on the contrary, develop strong hostility and a sense of superiority due to minor differences—the more similar they are, the more they exaggerate differences to establish identity. It explains disproportionate conflicts among neighbors, sects, and internal factions.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcissism_of_small_differencesZH · Explicit
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