Unique and worthy: Extending the nomological network of the need for uniqueness by aspects of the self-concept

The dispositional need for uniqueness (NfU) is defined as an individual's need to feel special and different from others (Snyder & Fromkin, 1980). Previous research has proposed a distinction between a private and a public NfU (Lalot et al., 2019). Still, there is no research on the specific nomological network of the private versus the public NfU. Three studies investigated the relationship between the private and the public NfU and aspects of the self-concept. In study 1 (N = 355), a high public NfU related to high self-esteem and high self-concept clarity. In contrast, the private NfU was statistically independent of self-esteem and self-concept clarity. Study 2 (N = 263) confirmed that self-esteem explains significant variance in the nomological network of the public NfU beyond neuroticism and extraversion. In study 3 (N = 256) we confirmed these results under methodological variance and analysed specific domains: Social, performance-related, and body-related self-esteem were also positively correlated with public NfU, but not private NfU. In sum, individuals with a high public NfU hold a positive self-evaluation. They are convinced of their attractiveness and athleticism, of their efficiency in their profession, and of their social value.