What is Egocentricism?

The term egocentrism refers to a person’s inability to comprehend that views or opinions may be different from their own. More specifically, it is a cognitive bias that limits one’s understanding of others to her own perspective. 

Egocentricism as a concept was developed in Piaget’s theory of childhood development.

How does Egocentrism Work? 

Egocentrists tend to care about their selves, lack empathy, show indifference to the needs of others, and are very concerned about what people think. 

David Elkind, a leading development theorist, defines egocentrism as a heightened self-awareness and self-conscious. 

For example, Elkins observed that teenagers often feel that others are likely to watch them and observe them. So, they are really concerned with the views and opinions of others and hence try to become attention seekers. 

Egocentrism is commonly compared to narcissism; though, narcissists tend to have additional attributes beyond those of the egocentric. 

The main distinction between being narcissist and egocentric is that the narcissist seeks appreciation and admiration from other people, and they feel a sense of reward from achieving that admiration. 

They routinely attempt to persuade others about their importance and value.