According to recent studies, the level of empathy and agreeableness in a person can affect their vulnerability to certain illnesses.

While it may seem counterintuitive, egotistical and repulsive individuals tend to have a lower susceptibility to some diseases. This research has surprising implications for the medical community and potentially even personal health choices.

What Did the Research Find?

The study found that individuals who displayed high levels of agreeableness (defined as cooperative and sympathetic) and empathy (defined as the ability to understand and share the feelings of others) tended to have a higher susceptibility to some illnesses. Conversely, those who displayed traits associated with narcissism, such as self-centeredness and a lack of empathy, had a lower vulnerability to certain diseases.

The research examined the immune systems of participants to determine their susceptibility to illness.

It found that the immune systems of more agreeable, empathetic individuals were less efficient at tackling pathogens, and were therefore more likely to contract certain illnesses. Meanwhile, the immune systems of less agreeable, more narcissistic individuals were more robust in fighting off infections.

What Does This Mean for the Medical Community?

It is important to note that this research is still in its early stages, and further studies are needed to explore the extent of these findings.

However, if confirmed, this could have significant implications for how doctors treat illnesses and how public health campaigns are designed.

Currently, most medical advice promotes empathy and kindness as positive attributes for general well-being. This study suggests that this may not always be the case, and that some individuals may benefit from a more self-centered approach.

Doctors may need to consider the personality type of their patients when prescribing treatment plans, and this could have an impact on how we approach public health campaigns.

What Are the Implications for Personal Health Choices?

If this research is confirmed, it could have implications for personal health choices. It is possible that some individuals could benefit from adopting a more narcissistic or self-centered outlook to improve their health.

However, it is important to note that this does not mean that everyone should strive to be narcissistic in order to avoid illness.

In fact, other studies have shown that having a healthy level of empathy and kindness is beneficial for overall well-being.

Ultimately, any personal health choices should be made in consultation with a doctor and based on an individual’s unique circumstances.

Conclusion

The idea that egotistical and repulsive individuals have a lower susceptibility to illness is certainly surprising. If confirmed, it could have significant implications for how we approach healthcare and personal health choices.

However, it is important to note that this research is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand the extent of these findings.